What Causes the Unique Shadows and Light Effects of Water Striders?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the optical phenomena associated with the shadows and light effects created by water striders, specifically focusing on the shadows cast by their legs and the surrounding bright rings of light.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore potential explanations for the shadows and light effects, including surface tension, water deformation, and optical effects akin to lenses. Questions about the nature of these effects and their causes are raised.

Discussion Status

Some participants suggest possible mechanisms, such as surface tension and refraction, while others express uncertainty and seek clarification. There is a focus on understanding the underlying principles without reaching a definitive conclusion.

Contextual Notes

One participant mentions the importance of a visual reference (a picture) that has not yet been approved, which may limit the discussion's depth. Additionally, there is a reference to educational materials that may influence the participants' perspectives.

zachcumer
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What accounts for the large shadows cast by the ends of the thin legs of the water strider? What accounts for the ring of bright light around the shadows?

Here is my picture (below) (ATTACHED)
 

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Bell bottoms?

Actually, I can't see your picture (not approved yet), but I'd guess that some water climbs up the strider's legs, due to surface tension in the water, so there's a "jacket" of water on them. Or, maybe it's an optical effect due to the deformation of the water where the strider's legs contact the surface. It could act like a lens, which would explain the deflection of light so that you get dark spots (from where light was redirected) and brights spots (to where the light was redirected). I'm just guessing, though, since I haven't seen the picture ... of course, I could still be guessing even then!
 
I believe the last thing you mentioned. "LENS"...is what my teacher is looking for. I just brushed up my reading and in the book, they talk a ton about lenses.
 
Thanks Belliott
 
Yup - if you're searching for key words, try "refraction"!
 
Again...very helpful..thanks man.
 

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