physicsRP9 · WavesPaper 2Separate only

Reflection and refraction of light

Method overview

Trace block/mirror, draw normal, direct a narrow ray at measured incidence angles, mark ray positions, remove apparatus, join points and measure angles from the normal.

Apparatus set-up

Diagram

ray box/laser; slit; mirror; glass block; paper; ruler; protractor

Independent variable

angle of incidence or material

Dependent variable

angle of reflection/refraction and ray path

Control variables

same block; ray colour; point of incidence; measurement method

Apparatus

ray box/laser; slit; mirror; glass block; paper; ruler; protractor

Safety

Do not look into laser/ray box; keep beam below eye level; glass may have sharp edges.

Scientific rationale

Angles are measured from normal; marking points then removing block avoids measuring through it; refraction occurs because wave speed changes.

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