AP Physics Unit13_1: Reflection And Refraction

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9 Terms

1
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What is the Law of Reflection?

θ1​=θ1′​

The angle of incidence (θ1) equals the angle of reflection (θ1′​).


Key Notes:

  • All angles are measured from the normal (perpendicular to the surface).

  • Incident, reflected, and refracted rays lie in the same plane.

  • Works for any smooth surface (e.g., mirrors, glass, water).

Example:
If light hits a mirror at 30∘ from the normal, it reflects at 30∘ on the opposite side.

<p><strong><em>θ</em>1​=<em>θ</em>1′​</strong></p><p>The angle of incidence (θ1) equals the angle of reflection (θ1′​).</p><p><br><strong>Key Notes</strong>:</p><ul><li><p>All angles are measured from the <strong>normal</strong> (perpendicular to the surface).</p></li><li><p>Incident, reflected, and refracted rays lie in <strong>the same plane</strong>.</p></li><li><p>Works for <strong>any smooth surface</strong> (e.g., mirrors, glass, water).</p></li></ul><p><strong>Example</strong><span>:</span><br><span>If light hits a mirror at 30<sup>∘</sup> from the normal, it reflects at 30<sup>∘</sup> on the opposite side.</span></p>
2
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Define index of refraction (n) and its formula.

​

  • c = speed of light in vacuum (3×108 m / s).

  • v = speed of light in the medium.

    Key Notes:

  • Always ≥ 1 (light slows down in materials).

  • No units (it’s a ratio).

  • Higher n = slower light = more bending.

    Example:

  • Air: n≈1.0

  • Water: n=1.33

  • Glass: n≈1.5

<p>​</p><ul><li><p>c = speed of light in vacuum (3×10<sup>8</sup> m / s).</p></li><li><p>v = speed of light in the medium.</p><p></p><p><strong>Key Notes</strong>:</p></li><li><p><strong>Always ≥ 1</strong> (light slows down in materials).</p></li><li><p><strong>No units</strong> (it’s a ratio).</p></li><li><p>Higher <span>n</span> =<strong> slower light </strong>= more bending.</p><p></p><p><strong>Example:</strong></p></li><li><p>Air: <span>n≈1.0</span></p></li><li><p>Water: <span>n=1.33</span></p></li><li><p>Glass: <span>n≈1.5</span></p></li></ul><p></p>
3
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State Snell’s Law and its implications.

4
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What are the conditions for Total Internal Reflection (TIR)?

<img src="https://knowt-user-attachments.s3.amazonaws.com/e25af27b-2ebe-4476-bbaa-45eced18d43f.png" data-width="100%" data-align="center"><p></p>
5
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How do you find θc?

6
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Why does a submerged object look shallower?

7
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How far can a fisherman see a submerged light?

8
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How does TIR work in a prism?

9
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Key Problem-Solving Tips

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