Refraction and the apparent slowing down of light

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    Light Refraction
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The speed of light decreases when it enters a medium like glass or air due to interactions with the material's electrons, which can be understood through both particle and wave theories. Light behaves as a wave that disturbs the electromagnetic field, while in a medium, its speed is affected by the electron's position and speed. The slowing down can be mathematically described using concepts like the refractive index, which quantifies how much light bends when entering a new medium. This phenomenon is crucial for understanding optics and the behavior of light in various materials. Understanding these principles enhances comprehension of light's interaction with matter.
ajassat
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I wish to understand why the speed of light slows down when it enters a medium such as glass or air.

Is this best understood by treating light as a stream of particles or a wave?

I have read that the speed of light (c) is a result of disturbance of the electromagnetic field. In contrast in media through which light is traveling the speed is a disturbance of the field which governs the position and speeds of the electron (in the material).

Is their any snippet of mathematics which can show how the light slows down in the electron containing medium.

Thank You
Adam
 
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