Reflection and Refraction of Waves — AQA GCSE Combined Science: Synergy 8465
AQA GCSE Combined Science: Synergy · 8465
Reflection and Refraction of Waves
What you need to know
Recall that different physical substances interact with electromagnetic waves by either reflecting or refracting them.
Differentiate between the reflection of waves on shiny surfaces (acting as mirrors) and the scattering of waves on rough surfaces.
Explain the phenomenon of refraction as the change in direction of an electromagnetic wave when it transitions between different substances (e.g., air to glass).
Relate refraction to the change in velocity of electromagnetic waves as they enter different media.
Construct and interpret ray diagrams to illustrate wave refraction at the boundary separating two distinct media.
Use wavefront diagrams to accurately explain refraction mechanisms in terms of alterations in wave speed.