Light Wave Behaviors

Front

What happens to waves as they pass through a narrow gap?

Back

They experience a large diffraction effect.

Front

When light slows down, in which direction does it bend?

Back

Towards the normal line.

Front

What is total internal reflection?

Back

The complete reflection of all light at the surface between two mediums.

Front

What phenomenon occurs when light passes through a prism and separates into colors?

Back

Refraction.

Front

What does the Law of Reflection state?

Back

The angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection.

Front

What is diffraction?

Back

The bending of waves around obstacles and openings.

Front

What is the normal line in optics?

Back

An imaginary line perpendicular to the surface at the point of incidence.

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 passes from one medium to another.

Front

What is the critical angle in total internal reflection?

Back

The angle of incidence above which total internal reflection occurs.

Front

What is the index of refraction?

Back

A measure of how much light slows down in a medium compared to vacuum.