Physics Flashcard: Reflection, Refraction, Mirrors, and Lenses

Front

What is total internal reflection?

Back

Total internal reflection occurs when light passes from a medium with a higher refractive index to a medium with a lower refractive index at an angle greater than the critical angle.

Front

Provide an example of total internal reflection.

Back

An example of total internal reflection is the mirage effect observed in deserts.

Front

What are the characteristics of a real image formed by a convex lens?

Back

A real image formed by a convex lens is inverted, located on the opposite side of the lens from the object, and can be projected onto a screen.

Front

What type of image does a diverging lens form?

Back

A diverging lens forms a virtual image that is upright and reduced in size.

Front

What type of mirror is used in a rearview mirror of a car?

Back

A rearview mirror of a car uses a concave mirror.

Front

What is a virtual image?

Back

A virtual image is an image formed by the apparent intersection of light rays that do not actually converge.

Front

Where is a virtual image commonly observed?

Back

A virtual image is commonly observed in a plane mirror.

Front

What is the critical angle in the context of total internal reflection?

Back

The critical angle is the angle of incidence above which total internal reflection occurs when light travels from a denser to a less dense medium.

Front

How does a concave lens affect light rays?

Back

A concave lens diverges light rays, causing them to spread out.

Front

What is the difference between real and virtual images?

Back

Real images can be projected onto a screen and are formed by converging light rays, while virtual images cannot be projected and are formed by diverging light rays.