Refraction Examples in Physics
Start with the recap, study the fully worked examples, then use the practice problems to check your understanding of Refraction.
This page combines explanation, solved examples, and follow-up practice so you can move from recognition to confident problem-solving in Physics.
Concept Recap
The bending of a wave as it crosses the boundary between two media with different wave speeds.
A straw looks bent in a glass of water because light bends at the surface.
Read the full concept explanation →How to Use These Examples
- Read the first worked example with the solution open so the structure is clear.
- Try the practice problems before revealing each solution.
- Use the related concepts and background knowledge badges if you feel stuck.
What to Focus On
Core idea: Waves bend at boundaries because they travel at different speeds in different media.
Common stuck point: Light bends toward the normal when entering a slower medium.
Worked Examples
Example 1
mediumSolution
- 1 Apply Snell's law: n_1 \sin\theta_1 = n_2 \sin\theta_2.
- 2 1.0 \times \sin 30° = 1.5 \times \sin\theta_2
- 3 0.5 = 1.5 \sin\theta_2 \implies \sin\theta_2 = \frac{0.5}{1.5} = 0.333
- 4 \theta_2 = \sin^{-1}(0.333) \approx 19.5°
Answer
Example 2
hardPractice Problems
Try these problems on your own first, then open the solution to compare your method.
Example 1
mediumExample 2
hardRelated Concepts
Background Knowledge
These ideas may be useful before you work through the harder examples.