6.2.3

Refraction of Light

Test yourself

Refraction of Light

Light is refracted when it travels from one medium to another and changes speed.

Illustrative background for Optically dense materialsIllustrative background for Optically dense materials ?? "content

Optically dense materials

  • If light slows down as it enters a new medium, this medium is “more optically dense”.
  • When light enters a more optically dense medium, it is refracted closer to the normal.
  • This means that the angle of refraction is smaller than the angle of incidence.
Illustrative background for Less optically dense materialsIllustrative background for Less optically dense materials ?? "content

Less optically dense materials

  • If light speeds up on entering a new medium, this medium is “less optically dense”.
  • The light is refracted further from the normal - the angle of refraction is larger than the angle of incidence.

Angle of Refraction

The angle of refraction is the angle between the refracted light ray and the normal.

Illustrative background for More optically dense materialIllustrative background for More optically dense material ?? "content

More optically dense material

When light enters a more optically dense medium, it is refracted closer to the normal and the angle of refraction is smaller.

Illustrative background for Less optically denseIllustrative background for Less optically dense ?? "content

Less optically dense

When light travels from one medium to a less optically dense medium, it is refracted further away from the normal and the angle of refraction is larger.

Jump to other topics

1Energy

2Electricity

3Particle Model of Matter

4Atoms & Radiation

5Forces

5.1Basics of Motion

5.2Forces

5.3Effects of Forces

5.4Pressure

6Waves

7Magnetism

8Astrophysics

Go student ad image

Unlock your full potential with GoStudent tutoring

  • Affordable 1:1 tutoring from the comfort of your home

  • Tutors are matched to your specific learning needs

  • 30+ school subjects covered

Book a free trial lesson