Focus Physics

Refraction of light

Core concepts and learning points for this section:

Syllabus Points

Core

  • 3.2.2.1 Define and use the terms normal, angle of incidence and angle of refraction
  • 3.2.2.2 Describe an experiment to show refraction of light by transparent blocks of different shapes
  • 3.2.2.3 Describe the passage of light through a transparent material (limited to the boundaries between two mediums only)
  • 3.2.2.4 State the meaning of critical angle

Supplement

  • 3.2.2.5 Define refractive index, n , as the ratio of the speeds of a wave in two different regions
  • 3.2.2.6 Recall and use the equation sin i n = sin r
  • 3.2.2.7 Recall and use the equation 1 n = sin c
  • 3.2.2.8 Describe the use of optical fibres, particularly in telecommunications
  • 3.2.2.9 Describe the use of optical fibres, particularly in telecommunications