What phenomenon occurs when light waves change speed as they enter a different medium? 🔊
The phenomenon that occurs when light waves change speed as they enter a different medium is called . This change in speed leads to a bending of the light rays, depending on the index of refraction of the mediums involved. For example, when light travels from air into water, it slows down and bends towards the normal line. Refraction is responsible for various optical effects, such as the distortion of objects submerged in water and the formation of prisms to create rainbows. It is fundamental in designing lenses for glasses, cameras, and other optical devices.
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