This question is about light. Figure 11a shows refraction of light at a boundary between glass and air and Figure 11b shows total internal reflection of light at a boundary between glass and air. Explain refraction and total internal reflection – 8009.

Q1.

This question is about light.

Figure 11a shows refraction of light at a boundary between glass and air.

Figure 11b shows total internal reflection of light at a boundary between glass and air.

Use Figure 11a and Figure 11b to explain refraction and total internal reflection.

You may add to Figure 11a and Figure 11b to help with your answer.

(6)

One thought on “This question is about light. Figure 11a shows refraction of light at a boundary between glass and air and Figure 11b shows total internal reflection of light at a boundary between glass and air. Explain refraction and total internal reflection – 8009.”

Arjun Verma says:

July 18, 2025 at 8:28 am

When light passes from one material to another, like from glass to air, it refracts. Refraction is a change in direction of the light ray.

The angle of incidence and the angle of refraction can be measured from the normal. When light goes from a more dense medium (like glass) into a less dense medium (like air), it bends away from the normal. The angle of refraction is bigger than the angle of incidence.

Light rays always travel in straight lines, but they change speed depending on the material. In glass, light travels more slowly than in air.

Total internal reflection happens when light tries to go from a more dense material to a less dense one, and the angle of incidence is equal to or greater than the critical angle. For glass, the critical angle is about 42°. If this happens, the light reflects back inside the glass instead of refracting.

Reply