Reflection, Refraction, and Absorption

Front

What is reflection?

Back

Reflection is when light bounces off a surface, like a mirror or water.

Front

What is refraction?

Back

Refraction is when light changes direction as it passes through different materials, like a prism.

Front

What is absorption?

Back

Absorption is when light is taken in by a material and converted into heat energy.

Front

What happens when light hits a mirror?

Back

The light reflects off the mirror, allowing us to see our image.

Front

What happens to light when it passes through a glass of water?

Back

The light is refracted, which can make objects appear bent or distorted.

Front

Can you see your reflection in still water?

Back

Yes, still water can reflect images like a mirror.

Front

What is an example of absorption?

Back

When sunlight hits a black surface, it gets absorbed and the surface becomes warm.

Front

What is a prism used for?

Back

A prism is used to refract light and separate it into different colors.

Front

What is the difference between reflection and refraction?

Back

Reflection is bouncing off a surface, while refraction is bending as it passes through a material.

Front

What do we call the colors we see when light passes through a prism?

Back

The colors are called the spectrum.