Refraction of light
Refraction is when light ‘bends’ (changes direction) when it enters a new medium (material).
This is because it travels at a different speed through different materials - and as the speed changes, so does the direction of the propegation of energy in the wave.
Calculating the angle of refraction
We can find the angle of refraction using [Snell’s law].
flashcards
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is refraction? | Refraction is when light ‘bends’ (changes direction) when it enters a new medium (material). |
| Why does light change direction during refraction? | This is because it travels at a different speed through different materials - and as the speed changes, so does the direction of the propegation of energy in the wave. |
| How do you calculate the angle of refraction? | We can find the angle of refraction using [Snell’s law]. |