Physics Module 16/17

  1. Define refraction. BE able to identify a diagram of refraction.

    1. Slowing down of atoms and molecules interacting in a medium; this slowing down is observed as a bend

  2. Define diffraction. BE able to identify a diffraction diffraction.

    1. When a wave “bends” around a medium

  3. Perform calculations using the index of refraction equation: n=C

  4. What happens to a refracted ray when

    1. n1 > n2

      1. Toward normal line; slower

    2. n1 = n2

      1. No bending

    3. n1 < n2

      1. Away from normal line; faster

  5. Perform calculations using Snell’s law: n1sinθ1 = n2sinθ2 

  6. Perform calculations solving for the critical angle of total internal reflection.

  7. Identify the conditions under which total internal reflection occurs.

    1. When light travels from a slower medium to a faster one at steep enough angles so that the angle of refraction would be 90 or greater 

  8. Define converging lens.

    1. Where waves interfere and their amplitudes “add”

  9. Define diverging lens.

    1. When waves interfere and their amplitudes “subtract”

  10. Draw ray diagrams for converging and diverging lenses.

  11. Perform calculations using the lens maker’s equation and magnification equation to solve for image distance, image height, and magnification for converging and diverging lens.

  12. What types of images can be created from

    1. Converging Lenses

    2. Diverging Lenses

      1. Images always virtual, reduced, and upright

  13. What are the sign conventions for converging and diverging lenses?

    1. Converging: +f

    2. Diverging: -f

  14. Perform calculations using the power formula for lenses: P=1f

  15. Define nearsightedness and what type of lenses are correct for it?

    1. Inability to see distant objects clearly while close objects are in focus

    2. Converging lens correct


  1. Define farsightedness and what type of lenses are correct for it?

    1. Inability to see close objects clearly while distant objects are in focus

    2. Diverging lens correct

  2. Define coherent light.

    1. Light waves are out of phase; different wavelengths of light

  3. Define incoherent light.

    1. Light waves are in phase; monochromatic

Perform calculations using the interference/diffraction formula: m=dsin