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Physics Notes

The document outlines key concepts related to the reflection and refraction of waves and light. Reflection occurs when a wave bounces back from a barrier, while refraction happens when a wave passes between different media, affecting its speed and wavelength. Additionally, it discusses the principles of apparent depth and total internal reflection, including relevant equations such as Snell's Law and the index of refraction.

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nmelhem04
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11 views3 pages

Physics Notes

The document outlines key concepts related to the reflection and refraction of waves and light. Reflection occurs when a wave bounces back from a barrier, while refraction happens when a wave passes between different media, affecting its speed and wavelength. Additionally, it discusses the principles of apparent depth and total internal reflection, including relevant equations such as Snell's Law and the index of refraction.

Uploaded by

nmelhem04
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Physics Summary – Reflection & Refraction of Waves and

Light

Key Concepts

Reflection of Waves

• Occurs when a wave hits a barrier and bounces back.

• Angle of incidence = Angle of reflection (i = r).

• Wave speed, frequency, and wavelength do NOT change after reflection.

Reflection Diagram

Normal

Incident Ray Reflected Ray

Refraction of Waves

• Occurs when a wave passes from one medium to another.

• Frequency remains constant.

• Speed and wavelength change: v = fλ.

• Speed decreases → bends toward normal.

• Speed increases → bends away from normal.

Refraction Diagram
Incident Ray

Boundary

Refracted Ray

Refraction of Light

• Light slows down in denser media (higher refractive index).

• Index of refraction: n = c/v.

• Snell's Law: n1 sin(i) = n2 sin(r).

n=c/v

n■ sin(i) = n■ sin(r)

Apparent Depth

• Objects underwater appear closer to the surface.

Apparent depth = Real depth / n

Total Internal Reflection

• Occurs only when light goes from denser → less dense medium.

• Angle of incidence > critical angle.

sin(C) = n■ / n■

Total Internal Reflection


Incident
Reflected

Refracted

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