Refraction and Reflection of Light

These flashcards cover key concepts about refraction and reflection of light, helping students prepare for their exam.

What is refraction?

Refraction is the bending of light when it passes from one medium to another, causing it to speed up or slow down.

What happens to light when it enters a denser medium?

Light bends towards the normal when it enters a denser medium, where it moves slower.

What is refraction?

Refraction is the bending of light when it passes from one medium to another, causing it to speed up or slow down.

What happens to light when it enters a denser medium?

Light bends towards the normal when it enters a denser medium, where it moves slower.

What is the difference between reflection and refraction?

Reflection occurs when light bounces off a surface at the same angle as it hits, while refraction involves light passing into a new medium and changing speed.

What is the normal in the context of light behavior?

The normal is a line drawn at a right angle to the reflective surface, used as a reference point for measuring angles of incidence and reflection.

What happens to light when it enters a medium with a lower refractive index?

Light bends away from the normal when it enters a medium with a lower refractive index, where it moves faster.

How does the density of a medium affect the speed of light?

A denser medium has more atoms and molecules, causing light to move through it more slowly.

What visual effect occurs when an object is placed in water?

The object appears bent due to the refraction of light as it slows down when passing from air into water.

What is the significance of the angle of incidence and angle of refraction?

The angle of incidence is the angle at which light hits a surface, while the angle of refraction is the angle at which light travels in the new medium; these angles differ when light is refracted.

When does light bend towards the normal?

Light bends towards the normal when entering a medium with a higher refractive index where it moves slower.

What resources can students use if they have questions after a lesson?

Students can review slides, check their textbook, ask friends, or attend extra help sessions.