Reflection, refraction, diffraction

Front

What is reflection?

Back

Reflection is the bouncing off of light rays from the surface of an object, such as a mirror or shiny surface.

Front

What happens to light rays when they are reflected?

Back

When light rays are reflected, they bounce back from the surface they strike.

Front

What is refraction?

Back

Refraction is the bending of a wave disturbance as it passes from one medium into another.

Front

What is an example of reflection?

Back

Light waves bouncing off a lake is an example of reflection.

Front

What is diffraction?

Back

Diffraction is the bending of waves around obstacles or the spreading of waves when they pass through small openings.

Front

What is a medium in the context of refraction?

Back

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

Front

What is the difference between reflection and refraction?

Back

Reflection involves light bouncing off a surface, while refraction involves light bending as it passes from one medium to another.

Front

What is an example of refraction?

Back

A straw appearing bent when placed in a glass of water is an example of refraction.

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.

Front

What is total internal reflection?

Back

Total internal reflection occurs when a wave hits a boundary at an angle greater than the critical angle, causing it to reflect entirely back into the medium.