Light Reflection, Refraction and Absorbtion

Front

What is light reflection?

Back

Light reflection is the bouncing back of light rays when they hit a surface. For example, when you look in a mirror, you see your reflection because light reflects off the mirror's surface.

Front

What is light refraction?

Back

Light refraction is the bending of light rays as they pass from one medium to another, such as from air to water. This bending causes objects to appear shifted from their actual position.

Front

What is light absorption?

Back

Light absorption occurs when light rays are taken in by a material and do not pass through or reflect. For example, a black shirt absorbs more light than a white shirt.

Front

What happens to light when it travels from air into water?

Back

When light travels from air into water, it slows down and bends, which is known as refraction.

Front

Why does a straw look bent in a glass of water?

Back

A straw looks bent in a glass of water because of refraction; the light rays change direction as they move from water to air.

Front

What is the law of reflection?

Back

The law of reflection states that the angle of incidence (the angle at which the incoming light hits a surface) is equal to the angle of reflection (the angle at which the light bounces off).

Front

What is a medium in terms of light?

Back

A medium is a substance through which light travels, such as air, water, or glass.

Front

What is total internal reflection?

Back

Total internal reflection occurs when light hits the boundary of a medium at a steep angle and is completely reflected back into the medium, rather than passing through.

Front

How does light behave when it hits a smooth surface?

Back

When light hits a smooth surface, it reflects in a predictable manner, allowing us to see clear images, like in mirrors.

Front

How does light behave when it hits a rough surface?

Back

When light hits a rough surface, it scatters in many directions, which is why we cannot see clear images on such surfaces.