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Refraction At Spherical Surfaces definitions

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Terms in this set (15)

  • Refraction
    The bending of light as it passes through a transparent surface, changing its speed and direction.
  • Spherical Surface
    A curved boundary that can be convex or concave, affecting how light rays refract.
  • Snell's Law
    A formula used to calculate the angle of refraction based on the indices of refraction of two media.
  • Focal Length
    The distance from the surface to the focal point, determining image formation.
  • Index of Refraction
    A measure of how much a medium slows down light, affecting its path.
  • Convex Surface
    A spherical surface that bulges outward, with a positive radius.
  • Concave Surface
    A spherical surface that curves inward, with a negative radius.
  • Image Distance
    The distance from the surface to the image formed, indicating if it's real or virtual.
  • Real Image
    An image formed where light rays converge, typically inverted.
  • Virtual Image
    An image formed where light rays appear to diverge, typically upright.
  • Radius of Curvature
    The radius of the sphere from which the surface is a part, affecting refraction.
  • Sign Convention
    Rules determining the positive or negative values for distances and radii in calculations.
  • Transparent Surface
    A surface that allows light to pass through, enabling refraction.
  • Medium
    The material through which light travels, affecting its speed and direction.
  • Object Distance
    The distance from the object to the refracting surface, used in image calculations.