Grade 8 Physics Light Properties Review Flashcard

Front

What is total internal reflection?

Back

Total internal reflection is the phenomenon that occurs when a light wave strikes the boundary of a medium at an angle greater than the critical angle, causing all the light to be reflected back into the medium instead of passing through.

Front

What is light transmission?

Back

Light transmission refers to the ability of light to pass through a medium without being absorbed or scattered.

Front

What is refraction of light?

Back

Refraction is the bending of light as it passes from one medium to another due to a change in its speed.

Front

What are the types of reflection?

Back

The two main types of reflection are regular reflection (specular) and diffuse reflection.

Front

What causes dispersion of light?

Back

Dispersion of light is caused by refraction, which occurs when light passes through a medium and separates into its component colors.

Front

Define regular reflection.

Back

Regular reflection occurs when light rays strike a smooth surface and reflect at the same angle, producing a clear image.

Front

Define diffuse reflection.

Back

Diffuse reflection occurs when light rays strike a rough surface and reflect in many directions, resulting in a blurry image.

Front

What is the critical angle in total internal reflection?

Back

The critical angle is the minimum angle of incidence at which total internal reflection occurs, specific to the two media involved.

Front

What is the relationship between wavelength and refraction?

Back

The degree of refraction depends on the wavelength of light; shorter wavelengths (blue light) refract more than longer wavelengths (red light).

Front

What is the law of reflection?

Back

The law of reflection states that the angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection.