How does light behave when passing through glass or water?

In summary, when light passes through materials such as glass or water, its velocity is reduced and its direction changes due to the process of refraction. This change in velocity is caused by the index of refraction, which is influenced by the electrons of the medium. The interaction between the incident wave and the oscillating electrons results in both a change in velocity and absorption, which can be described by the complex index of refraction.
  • #1
smk
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When light passes in glass, water etc then velocity is reduced and direction changes HOW?
 
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  • #2
The change of direction is due to refraction, which is due to the change in the velocity, which is due to the index of refraction.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Refraction

The index of refraction is basically due to the electrons of the medium. The electric field of the wave excites oscillations of the electrons, which in turn emit electromagnetic waves that overlap with the incident wave. The net effect is (a) a change in the velocity and (b) absorption. Both together can be described by a complex index of refraction

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Refractive_index
 
  • #3
Thanks
 

1. What is an atom?

An atom is the smallest unit of matter that retains the properties of an element. It is composed of a nucleus, which contains protons and neutrons, and surrounded by electrons in orbitals.

2. What is solid state?

Solid state refers to the physical state of matter in which particles are closely packed together and have a fixed shape and volume. This state is characterized by strong intermolecular forces between particles.

3. How is solid state different from liquid or gas state?

In liquid and gas states, particles have more freedom of movement and are not as tightly packed as in solid state. Liquids have a fixed volume but not a fixed shape, while gases have neither a fixed volume nor a fixed shape.

4. What is the importance of solid state in materials science?

Solid state plays a crucial role in materials science as most materials used in technology and everyday life are in solid state. The properties of solids, such as strength, conductivity, and magnetism, can be manipulated and improved for various applications.

5. How does solid state affect the properties of materials?

The arrangement and bonding of particles in solid state greatly influence the physical and chemical properties of materials. For example, the crystalline structure of a solid can affect its strength and conductivity, while the amorphous structure can affect its transparency and flexibility.

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