Light - Grade 7 Notes
Introduction to Light
Light is a form of energy that enables us to see objects. It travels in a straight line and can be
reflected, refracted, or absorbed.
Properties of Light
1. Rectilinear Propagation of Light - Light travels in a straight line.
2. Reflection of Light - Bouncing back of light when it hits a smooth surface.
3. Refraction of Light - Bending of light when it passes from one medium to another.
4. Dispersion of Light - Splitting of light into its constituent colors.
Reflection of Light
- Laws of Reflection:
1. The angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection.
2. The incident ray, the reflected ray, and the normal lie on the same plane.
- Types of Reflection:
1. Regular Reflection - Occurs on a smooth surface like a mirror.
2. Diffuse Reflection - Occurs on rough surfaces, scattering light in different directions.
Refraction of Light
- When light travels from one medium to another (e.g., air to water), it bends.
- The speed of light is different in different media, causing refraction.
Dispersion of Light
- When white light passes through a prism, it splits into seven colors: Violet, Indigo, Blue, Green,
Yellow, Orange, and Red (VIBGYOR).
Lenses and Mirrors
- Concave Mirror: Reflects light inward; used in torches and headlights.
- Convex Mirror: Spreads light out; used in rear-view mirrors.
- Convex Lens: Converging lens; used in magnifying glasses.
- Concave Lens: Diverging lens; used in spectacles for myopia.
Differences Between Concave and Convex Mirrors
| Feature | Concave Mirror | Convex Mirror |
|--------------------|------------------------------|------------------------------|
| Shape | Curved inward | Curved outward |
| Image Formation | Can be real or virtual | Always virtual and upright |
| Size of Image | Larger, smaller, or same | Always smaller |
| Common Uses | Headlights, solar cookers | Rear-view mirrors |
Differences Between Concave and Convex Lenses
| Feature | Concave Lens | Convex Lens |
|--------------------|------------------------------|------------------------------|
| Shape | Thinner at center, thicker at edges | Thicker at center, thinner at edges |
| Image Formation | Always virtual and smaller | Can be real or virtual |
| Light Behavior | Diverges light | Converges light |
| Common Uses | Spectacles for myopia | Magnifying glasses, cameras |
Applications of Mirrors
- Concave Mirrors:
- Used in torches, headlights, and searchlights to focus light.
- Used in shaving mirrors to provide an enlarged image.
- Used in solar cookers to concentrate sunlight.
- Used by dentists to see an enlarged image of teeth.
- Convex Mirrors:
- Used in vehicle rear-view mirrors for a wider field of view.
- Used in security mirrors in shops and parking lots.
- Used in streetlights to spread light over a larger area.
Applications of Lenses
- Concave Lenses:
- Used in spectacles to correct myopia (short-sightedness).
- Used in peepholes in doors to get a wider field of view.
- Convex Lenses:
- Used in magnifying glasses and microscopes.
- Used in cameras and projectors to focus light.
- Used in spectacles to correct hyperopia (far-sightedness).
Applications of Light
- Used in optical instruments like microscopes, telescopes, and periscopes.
- Essential for photography, vision, and fiber optics.
Summary
- Light enables vision and follows the laws of reflection and refraction.
- Mirrors and lenses have specific applications in daily life.