Continue with Microsoft TeamsRefracted Light
Light slows down when it travels from air into a liquid. If light travels from air straight into water, it slows down but keeps moving in a straight line. If light enters water at an angle, it slows down and changes direction. This change in direction is called refraction. After light changes direction, it keeps moving in a straight line. The same thing happens when light travels through solid material such as glass. Try the experiment below to see refraction for yourself.
What You Need
- A clear glass half-filled with water
- A pencil
What You Do
- Put the pencil in the water so it leans against one side of the glass.
- Look at the pencil from above. Look at the pencil from the side.
Show What You Know!
Complete some questions about the reading selection by clicking “Begin Questions” below.
