reflection and refraction Flashcards
1
Q
What is reflection?
A
The ‘normal’ is a construction line perpendicular to reflecting surface at the point of incidence. The angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection.
2
Q
What is refraction?
A
Refraction occurs when waves pass between objects of different densities. Waves undergo a change of direction when they are refracted at an interface. If the wave is travelling along the normal then wave is not refracted.
3
Q
What is diffraction
A
Diffraction is when a wave spread out after passing through a gap. Significant diffraction only occurs when the size of gap the wave is passing through is of a similar magnitude to the wavelength.
