Convex Refraction: Why do objects appear larger when viewed through a fishbowl?

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    Convex Refraction
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Homework Help Overview

The discussion centers around the phenomenon of refraction and how it affects the apparent size of objects viewed through a fishbowl. Participants are exploring the optical effects caused by the transition of light between different media, specifically air, water, and glass.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to understand why objects appear larger when viewed through water, with references to the change in medium and its effect on light. Questions about the nature of refraction and the behavior of light as it passes through multiple media are raised.

Discussion Status

Some participants are providing insights into the principles of refraction and the behavior of light, while others are seeking clarification on their understanding. There is an acknowledgment of the need to show work before receiving further assistance, indicating a productive direction in the discussion.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of demonstrating understanding and providing work in the context of homework help, which may influence the responses and guidance offered.

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Homework Statement


Why do fish appear bigger when you look at them through a fishbowl?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


because objects in water appear bigger than they actually are? this has to do with change in the medium from air n1 to water n2?
 
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i know its bad form and looked down upon but I still need help with this. Thanks!
 
aquabum619 said:
because objects in water appear bigger than they actually are?
This isn't an answer is it? It's simply rephrasing the original question!
this has to do with change in the medium from air n1 to water n2?
Yes. What do you know about refraction? What happens to the light when it travels from a less dense medium (e.g. air) to a more dense medium (e.g. water)?

Note, you need to show some work before you can get help with homework questions.
 
cristo said:
Note, you need to show some work before you can get help with homework questions.

Yea sorry about that.

When light moves from a medium of air to a higher medium, say glass, the angle of light will diffract inward, making the image appear closer than it actually is. But in this case we have an n1 (air), n2 (convex/ concave glass) then a medium of water (n3)
Would the light diffract 3 times since its going through 3 different mediums?
 

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