Everyday Science · 45 sec
Refraction
The science behind something you encounter, use, or wonder about.
The useful idea
- The useful idea
In physics, refraction is the redirection of a wave as it passes from one medium to another.
- How it works
The redirection can be caused by the wave's change in speed or by a change in the medium.
- Why it matters
Refraction of light is the most commonly observed phenomenon, but other waves such as sound waves and water waves also experience refraction.
Why this matters
Look for Refraction the next time you notice this pattern in everyday life.
Try this
Look for Refraction the next time you notice this pattern in everyday life.
Test your recall
Which idea belongs to the explanation of Refraction?
- Why it matters
- How it works
- The useful idea — correct
In physics, refraction is the redirection of a wave as it passes from one medium to another.