EM Spectrum and Light Flashcard

Front

What is reflection in the context of light?

Back

Reflection is the bouncing back of light rays when they hit a surface that does not absorb the light. An example is seeing your image in a mirror.

Front

What happens to light when it strikes a mirror?

Back

When light strikes a mirror, it is reflected, meaning it bounces off the surface instead of being absorbed or stopped.

Front

What is refraction?

Back

Refraction is the bending of light as it passes from one medium to another, causing optical illusions, such as objects appearing displaced when viewed underwater.

Front

What type of radiation from the sun causes sunburn?

Back

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the part of the electromagnetic spectrum that can cause sunburn.

Front

How does wavelength relate to frequency and energy in waves?

Back

A wave with a large wavelength has a low frequency and low energy.

Front

What is the electromagnetic spectrum?

Back

The electromagnetic spectrum is the range of all types of electromagnetic radiation, including visible light, ultraviolet light, infrared radiation, and more.

Front

What is absorption in terms of light?

Back

Absorption is the process by which a material takes in light energy, preventing it from being reflected or transmitted.

Front

What is transmission in the context of light?

Back

Transmission is the passing of light through a material without being absorbed or reflected.

Front

What is the difference between visible light and ultraviolet light?

Back

Visible light is the part of the electromagnetic spectrum that can be seen by the human eye, while ultraviolet light is invisible and can cause skin damage.

Front

What is an optical illusion?

Back

An optical illusion is a visual phenomenon that tricks the brain into seeing something that is not there or misinterpreting the position of an object.