Behavior of Light

Front

What is a prism?

Back

A cut piece of clear glass or plastic in the form of a triangle or other geometric shape that refracts light.

Front

What is light?

Back

Light is a form of energy that can travel through matter (gas, liquid, solid) and empty space.

Front

What is reflection in the context of light?

Back

Reflection is the bouncing back of light when it hits a surface.

Front

What is the crest of a wave?

Back

The highest point on a wave.

Front

What is amplitude in wave physics?

Back

Amplitude is the height of a wave, measured from the rest position to the crest.

Front

What is refraction?

Back

Refraction is the bending of light as it passes from one medium to another.

Front

What is the difference between reflection and refraction?

Back

Reflection is the bouncing back of light, while refraction is the bending of light as it enters a different medium.

Front

What is the speed of light in a vacuum?

Back

The speed of light in a vacuum is approximately 299,792 kilometers per second (or about 186,282 miles per second).

Front

What is a wave?

Back

A wave is a disturbance that transfers energy through space or matter.

Front

What are the two main types of waves?

Back

The two main types of waves are mechanical waves (which require a medium) and electromagnetic waves (which do not require a medium).