What is Refraction? Definition, Meaning & Example
Refraction is the bending of waves when they pass from one medium to another where the wave speed is different.
TL;DR: Refraction is the bending of waves when they pass from one medium to another where the wave speed is different.
Written & reviewed by the Syllab.in Academic Team (CBSE/NCERT subject experts) · Updated
Refraction: Refraction is the bending of waves when they pass from one medium to another where the wave speed is different.
Explanation
Light and sound waves bend when entering a new medium due to changes in wave speed. The amount of bending depends on the difference in wave speeds between the two media. Light bends toward the normal when entering a denser medium and away from the normal when entering a less dense medium. The refractive index measures how much a material bends light. Refraction explains why objects appear bent when viewed through water and why lenses focus light. Snells Law mathematically describes the relationship between angles and refractive indices. Understanding refraction is essential in optics and designing lenses.
Example
A straw in a glass of water appears bent due to refraction of light as it exits the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does refraction occur?
Refraction occurs because waves change speed when entering a different medium. The change in speed causes the direction of the wave to change. The part of the wave that enters the new medium first changes speed, while the rest of the wave still moves at the original speed, causing bending.
Does refraction occur with all types of waves?
Yes, refraction occurs with all types of waves including light, sound, and water waves. Any wave that travels at different speeds in different media will refract when changing media.
More Physics Terms
🤖 Stuck on any of these? Ask Syllab's free AI Tutor to explain step by step →