Question

a ray of light travels through the glass wall of an aquarium. when the light reaches the interface between glass (n

Answer 1

The light ray will undergo refraction as it passes from the glass into the water, bending towards the normal.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a ray of light traverses the glass wall of an aquarium and encounters the boundary between glass (n₁ = 1.5) and water (n₂ = 1.33), it undergoes a fundamental optical phenomenon known as refraction. This phenomenon is governed by Snell's Law, an equation that relates the angles of incidence and refraction to the refractive indices of the two media involved.

In the context of this scenario, the higher refractive index of glass compared to water causes the light ray to bend towards the normal as it enters the water. The mathematical representation of Snell's Law,
`\( n_1 \cdot \sin(\theta_1) = n_2 \cdot \sin(\theta_2) \),` encapsulates this directional change. The specific angle of refraction depends on the angle of incidence, which is not provided in the question.

Nevertheless, this refraction phenomenon is a common occurrence in optics and has practical implications, as it plays a pivotal role in shaping the visual experience when observing objects through transparent mediums like aquariums. The bending of light contributes to the captivating distortions and apparent displacements of objects within the aquarium, creating visually intriguing effects that capture the fascination of observers.

Complete Question:

A ray of light travels through the glass wall of an aquarium. When the light reaches the interface between glass (n₁ = 1.5) and water (n₂ = 1.33), what will happen to the light ray?