Does refraction lead to energy loss

In summary, the conversation discusses the vibrational damping of bubble wrap and identifies three main contributors to this effect: surface tension, change in volume of the bubble chambers, and reflection at boundary layers. The possibility of refraction as an additional contributor is also mentioned. The conversation ends with a question about the specific type of refraction being considered.
  • #1
sunrah
199
22
Considering the vibrational damping of bubble wrap. My basic premise is that there are three main contributors to the damping effect:

1) Surface tension of the sheet structure and the bubbles themselves when subject to applied force causes dissipation of force away from applied direction
2) The change of volume of the bubble chambers (filled with air) requires work to be done: energy loss!
3) Reflexion at boundary layers: a very small portion of the propagating vibrations (mechanical waves) are reflected back at each boundary.

I'm wondering if refraction would also contribute. Any ideas would be appreciated.
 
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  • #2
2) The change of volume of the bubble chambers (filled with air) requires work to be done: energy loss!
If this happens quick enough to neglect temperature exchange, you get the work back at expansion.

Refraction of what? Sound? But that is just what you describe.
 

1. What is refraction and how does it lead to energy loss?

Refraction is the bending of light as it passes from one medium to another. When light passes through a medium with a different density, such as from air to water, it changes speed and direction. This change in direction causes some of the light energy to be lost, resulting in a decrease in the intensity of the light beam.

2. Why is energy loss important in the context of refraction?

Energy loss is important because it affects the intensity of the light and can impact the accuracy of measurements or observations. In some cases, such as in fiber optics, energy loss due to refraction can also lead to signal distortion and decrease the efficiency of transmission.

3. Does refraction always result in energy loss?

No, refraction does not always lead to energy loss. It depends on the angle at which the light enters the medium and the refractive index of the materials involved. If the light enters the medium at a perpendicular angle, there will be no refraction and therefore no energy loss.

4. How does the thickness of a medium impact energy loss due to refraction?

The thicker the medium, the greater the distance the light travels and the higher the chance of energy loss. This is because the light has more opportunities to interact with the particles in the medium and lose energy. Thinner mediums, such as thin glass lenses, have less potential for energy loss through refraction.

5. Can energy loss due to refraction be prevented or minimized?

Energy loss due to refraction can be minimized by using materials with similar refractive indexes, such as in anti-reflective coatings. In some cases, such as in fiber optics, special designs and coatings are used to prevent or reduce energy loss. However, some energy loss is inevitable and cannot be completely eliminated.

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