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Episode 316: Preparation for reflection and refraction topic

This topic gives an overview of reflection and refraction, with the emphasis on an interpretation in terms of waves. Applications, particularly those involving total internal reflection, are considered.

Episode 317: Reflection and refraction

Episode 318: Total internal reflection and fibre optics

Looking ahead

The demonstration of refraction using a ripple tank is tricky, and it is a good idea to practise this. 

Main aims Students will: know how to justify the law of reflection by a wave diagram. know how to justify Snell’s law in terms of wave velocities. be able to perform calculations involving the refractive index. be able to perform calculations involving critical angle. know the benefits of fibre optic communication.

 Prior knowledge

Students should know:

• the law of reflection.
• the law of refraction, or at least have a qualitative knowledge of refraction.

 Where this leads

This work explains the behaviour of light in terms of waves; this is particularly important as diffraction and interference follow (as the result of superposition of waves).

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