Refracted ray
Definition
The refracted ray is the bent path taken by light as it passes from one medium to another with different optical densities. It occurs due to a change in speed and direction.
Analogy
Think about how your view appears distorted when you look through a glass filled with water. The way objects appear shifted or bent when viewed through water can help visualize how light bends or refracts as it passes through different materials.
Related terms
Angle of refraction: The angle between the refracted ray and the normal line.
Snell's law: A formula that relates angles and speeds for light passing from one medium to another.
Index of refraction: A measure of how much a material slows down light compared to vacuum or air.
"Refracted ray" appears in:
Study guides (1)
Resources
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.