How does refractive index matching make a solid disappear in a liquid?

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SUMMARY

The phenomenon of a solid appearing to "disappear" when submerged in a liquid is explained by the principle of refractive index matching. When both the solid and the liquid share the same index of refraction, light passes through them without scattering, resulting in no visible distortion. This occurs because there is no change in the electromagnetic properties of the medium, allowing light to behave as if the solid is not present. Understanding this concept clarifies the relationship between reflection, refraction, and the visibility of objects in different media.

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baileya
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I'm just wondering how it works exactly? How can a solid submersed in a liquid somewhat "disappear". I've tried googling it with no luck and I'm super intrigued by this whole concept.

PS: the more clear and simple you can explain it, the better.. I tend to get confused easily by things like this.
 
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Reflection, refraction and diffraction rely on there being some kind of change in the material properties in the medium. If we immerse an object in some medium and both share the same primary electromagnetic properties then there will not be any distortion or pertubation to the electromagnetic waves. So if we place a homogeneous object into a fluid where both have the same index of refraction, then the light will pass through the fluid and the object without scattering. It's essentially invisible since the light behaves the same way as if the object wasn't there in the first place.
 
ohhh! that makes so much sense to me now :) thank you!
 

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