What happens to light rays when they pass from one medium into another medium? Explain the process of refraction.
Understand the Problem
The question asks about the behavior of light rays when transitioning between different media and specifically requests an explanation of the refraction process. This involves understanding how the speed of light changes and how this affects the direction of the light ray.
Answer
When light moves between mediums, it bends due to a speed change, known as refraction. The bending direction depends on the densities of the two mediums.
When light rays move from one medium to another, refraction occurs; the light bends due to a change in speed. If light travels from a rarer to a denser medium, it bends toward the normal. Conversely, it bends away from the normal when moving from a denser to a rarer medium.
Answer for screen readers
When light rays move from one medium to another, refraction occurs; the light bends due to a change in speed. If light travels from a rarer to a denser medium, it bends toward the normal. Conversely, it bends away from the normal when moving from a denser to a rarer medium.
More Information
Refraction is responsible for many optical illusions, such as a straw appearing bent in a glass of water.
Tips
A common mistake is forgetting that the angle of refraction depends on both the angle of incidence and the refractive indices of the two media. Always consider both mediums when determining how light will bend.
Sources
- Refraction of light - Science Learning Hub - sciencelearn.org.nz
- Reflection, Refraction, and Diffraction - The Physics Classroom - physicsclassroom.com
- Refraction of Light - BYJU'S - byjus.com
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