Refraction and Diffraction Flashcard

Front

What causes a rainbow to form when white light passes through water droplets?

Back

The colors that make up white light refract at different angles.

Front

How can you easily create an interference pattern of waves?

Back

Toss two pebbles into the water close to each other; the waves from each pebble will interfere with the other.

Front

In which field is diffraction particularly useful?

Back

Astronomy.

Front

What happens to light when it refracts?

Back

It changes speed.

Front

What types of waves can be refracted?

Back

Anything that travels in waves.

Front

Define refraction.

Back

The bending of light as it passes from one medium to another due to a change in speed.

Front

What is diffraction?

Back

The bending of waves around obstacles and openings.

Front

What is the relationship between wavelength and diffraction?

Back

Longer wavelengths diffract more than shorter wavelengths.

Front

What is an example of refraction in everyday life?

Back

A straw appearing bent when placed in a glass of water.

Front

What is the principle behind the formation of a rainbow?

Back

Dispersion of light due to refraction in water droplets.