โ† All Science topics
Science ยท Topic 50 of 124

Refraction of Light

Refraction is the bending of light as it passes from one material into another, such as from air into water. This bending makes things look bent in a glass of water.

๐Ÿ’ก Fun fact

A straw in a glass of water looks broken because light bends at the surface.

All about Refraction of Light

Refraction is the bending of light when it passes from one material into another, such as from air into water. The bending happens because light changes speed as it enters the new material.

Refraction is why a straw in a glass of water looks bent and why lenses can focus light.

When it crosses from one to another at an angle, it changes speed and bends.

Rainbows are also created by refraction as light enters raindrops.

๐ŸŽฎ Try it yourself!

Loadingโ€ฆ

Real-life uses of Refraction of Light

  • Designing eyeglasses and contact lenses
  • Building cameras and microscopes
  • Understanding why a swimming pool looks shallower

Frequently asked questions about Refraction of Light

What is refraction?

Refraction is the bending of light as it moves between materials.

Why does a pool look shallower?

Light from the bottom bends as it leaves the water, so the bottom appears higher.