Question 25
Activity 6.2.1: Refraction effects
This activity shows three effects of refraction.
Effect 1: The appearing coin
Place a coin or small piece of metal at the bottom of an opaque container, such as a cup.
Position yourself so that the coin is just out of view behind the edge of the container, as shown in the diagram.
Now pour water into the cup until it is almost full. Pour the water in carefully so the coin does not move. The coin comes into view.
Can you use a ray diagram to explain why? You need to think about how a light ray travels from the coin, up through the water and out into the air.
This activity shows three effects of refraction.
Effect 1: The appearing coin
Place a coin or small piece of metal at the bottom of an opaque container, such as a cup.
Position yourself so that the coin is just out of view behind the edge of the container, as shown in the diagram.
Now pour water into the cup until it is almost full. Pour the water in carefully so the coin does not move. The coin comes into view.
Can you use a ray diagram to explain why? You need to think about how a light ray travels from the coin, up through the water and out into the air.
