chapter 9 (ray model of light)

Question 1

refraction

Answer 1

definition : the bending of light as it travels from one medium to another

Question 2

optical density

Answer 2

• when light travels from one medium to another of the same optical density, light does not change speed. the light ray does not bend and continues travelling in a straight line
• when light travels from a lighter optical density to a higher optical density, light travels slower. the light ray bends towards the normal
• when light travels from a higher optical density to a lighter optical density [e.g. water to air], light travels faster. the light bends away from the normal

Question 3

apparent depth

Answer 3

• happens when refraction occurs

- refraction causes the object to appear “shallower” in water than the actual depth of the object