Light and Optics: Chapters 1 & 2 Test Review

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following best describes the role of the normal in the context of reflection?

It represents the path of light after reflection.
It is the line along which the incident ray travels.
It is an imaginary line perpendicular to the reflecting surface, used to measure angles. (correct)
It indicates the surface of the mirror.

How does the speed of light change when it travels from air to water?

It decreases. (correct)
It fluctuates randomly.
It remains constant.
It increases.

Which of the following is a fundamental property of light?

Light is a form of matter.
Light only interacts with translucent materials.
Light is a form of energy that travels in straight lines. (correct)
Light travels in curved lines around obstacles.

What is the primary reason the Hubble Space Telescope provides clearer images of space objects compared to telescopes on Earth?

There is no atmosphere in space to distort the light. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes a concave mirror?

A mirror with a surface that curves inward, like a bowl. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What happens to parallel light rays after they pass through a convex lens?

They refract toward each other and converge at a focal point. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following materials allows only some light to pass through?

Translucent (A) Signup and view all the answers

What did Van Leeuwenhoek contribute to science?

Discovery of 'little animalcules' using a microscope. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the best definition of diffuse reflection?

Reflection off a rough surface where light scatters in many directions. (B) Signup and view all the answers

A light source is located behind the focal point of a convex mirror. What characteristics will the reflected image have?

Upright and smaller. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which property of light is most directly responsible for the formation of shadows?

Light travels in straight lines. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Why is understanding the properties of light crucial in developing optical technologies?

Because all optical technologies rely on manipulating light's properties to achieve a desired effect. (D) Signup and view all the answers

How did the invention of the microscope advance the field of biology?

It allowed scientists to see cells and microorganisms, leading to the development of cell theory and germ theory. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is a limitation of using only two lenses in a basic microscope?

The image may suffer from aberrations, reducing clarity. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best illustrates a lasting impact from discoveries made using early telescopes?

Advancements in understanding planetary motion and our place in the universe. (A) Signup and view all the answers

How does the diameter of the objective lens/mirror affect the performance of a telescope?

A larger diameter increases detail and light gathering ability. (A) Signup and view all the answers

The choice between using a refracting telescope and a reflecting telescope often depends on what factors?

The desired magnification and the size of the instrument. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the lens in a refracting telescope?

To gather light and magnify the image of distant objects. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is a key difference between a refracting telescope and binoculars, given that both use lenses?

Binoculars incorporate prisms for image erection and shortening the physical length, while refracting telescopes may not. (A) Signup and view all the answers

In what scenario would using a reflecting telescope be more advantageous than using a refracting telescope?

When observing very faint and distant celestial objects. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Who was Al Haytham?

First scientist to accurately describe how vision works and diagram the eye.

How fast does light travel?

The speed of light in a vacuum is approximately 300,000 kilometers per second.