Light and Vision Vocabulary

Front

Light

Back

A form of energy that travels in waves and can move through empty space as well as through materials like air and water. Light allows us to see and makes things visible by reflecting off surfaces and entering our eyes.

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NGSS.4-PS4-2

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Object

Back

Any physical item that can reflect or absorb light. Objects can either produce their own light, like the Sun, or be seen because they reflect light from other sources.

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NGSS.4-PS4-2

Front

Reflection

Back

The process by which light bounces off a surface, changing direction. Smooth surfaces, like mirrors, reflect light in a single, predictable direction, while rough surfaces scatter light in many directions.

Tags

NGSS.4-PS4-2

Front

Eye

Back

The eye is a complex organ that detects light and allows for vision. Light enters through the eye's lens, which focuses it onto the retina, where signals are sent to the brain to create visual images.

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NGSS.4-PS4-2

NGSS.4-LS1-2

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Vision

Back

The ability to interpret light signals as images in the brain. Vision occurs when light reflects off objects, enters the eye, and is processed to create an understanding of shapes, colors, and movement.

Tags

NGSS.4-PS4-2

Front

Cause and Effect

Back

The relationship between an action (cause) and its outcome (effect). In light and vision, for example, light (cause) reflects off an object and reaches our eyes, allowing us to see it (effect).

Tags

NGSS.4-PS4-2

NGSS.4-PS3-2

Front

Barrier

Back

An object that blocks light.

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NGSS.4-PS4-2

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Energy

Back

The capacity to do work, here referring to light energy.

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NGSS.4-PS3-2

NGSS.4-PS4-2

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Illuminate

Back

To light up or make something visible.

Tags

NGSS.4-PS4-2

Front

Light Source

Back

An object that emits light (e.g., the Sun, a lamp).

Tags

NGSS.4-PS4-2