Refraction of light and wavelength

In summary, refraction of light is the bending of light when it passes through a medium with a different density. This change in direction is caused by a change in the speed of light as it travels from one medium to another. The wavelength of light is directly related to the amount of refraction that occurs, with a higher density medium resulting in a shorter wavelength and greater refraction. The angle of incidence also plays a role in refraction, with a larger angle resulting in a greater amount of refraction. Real-life applications of refraction and wavelength include the design of lenses, formation of rainbows, and use in fiber optic cables and underwater vision.
  • #1
siobhanbree
1
0
Light of wavelength 680 nm in air enters water making an angle of 40 degrees with the normal. Find the angle of refraction and the wavelength of light in water.

I found the angle of refraction, but I don't know how to calculate the wavelength with this information.
 
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  • #2
welcome to pf!

hi siobhanbree! welcome to pf! :smile:

hint: does the frequency change? what is the relation between wavelength and frequency? :wink:
 

1. What is refraction of light?

Refraction of light is the bending of light when it passes through a medium with a different density, such as air and water. This bending is caused by a change in the speed of light as it travels from one medium to another.

2. How does refraction of light occur?

Refraction of light occurs when the light changes speed as it passes from one medium to another. This change in speed is caused by the change in the density of the medium, which causes the light to bend towards the normal (perpendicular) line.

3. What is the relationship between refraction and wavelength?

The wavelength of light is directly related to the amount of refraction that occurs. When light passes through a medium with a higher density, the speed of light decreases and the wavelength becomes shorter. This results in a greater amount of refraction.

4. How does the angle of incidence affect refraction?

The angle of incidence, which is the angle at which light enters a medium, affects the amount of refraction that occurs. The greater the angle of incidence, the greater the amount of refraction. This is because a larger angle of incidence causes the light to travel through a thicker portion of the medium, resulting in a greater change in speed and a larger angle of refraction.

5. What are some real-life applications of refraction of light and wavelength?

Refraction of light and wavelength have various real-life applications. For example, they are used in the design of lenses for eyeglasses and telescopes, in the formation of rainbows, and in the functioning of fiber optic cables for communication. They are also important in understanding the behavior of light in different mediums, such as in the study of underwater vision and the formation of mirages.

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