Level 1 Physical Science: Definitions Flashcards
Light Definition
Light is a type of electromagnetic radiation. (also a form of energy)
Normal definition
An imaginary line drawn 90° to a surface
Reflection definition
When light strikes a surface and is reflected off.
Angle of incidence definition
The angle of incoming light ray, which is measured from the normal.
Angle of reflection definition
The angle of the reflected ray, which is measured from the normal.
Refraction definition
The bending of light as it crosses the boundary between two transparent mediums.
Angle of refraction definition
The angle of the refracted ray, measured from the normal.
Partial reflection definition
Some light may be reflected back as light rays pass from one medium to another. It follows the normal reflection rules.
Dispersion definition
White light splits into the colours of the visible spectrum due to refraction through a glass prism.
ROYGBIV definition
Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, Violet. The colours in the visible spectrum and rainbows
Apparent depth definition
Where objects submerged in water appear to be at a shallower depth than they really are due to the light rays changing direction at the water/air boundary.
Lateral Inversion definition
Where images appear to be back to front
Critical angle definition
The angle of incidence that gives an angle of refraction of 90°
Total internal reflection definition
When a ray of light strikes a surface at an angle larger/greater than the critical angle.
Definition of crest
Maximum upwardes displacement
