#AP Physics 2: Light - Reflection, Refraction, and Absorption 💡

Hey there, future AP Physics 2 master! Let's dive into the world of light and optics. This guide is designed to be your go-to resource, especially when you're cramming the night before the exam. We'll make sure everything is clear, concise, and memorable. Let's get started!

#Light Interactions: Reflection, Refraction, and Absorption

When light encounters a new medium, three things can happen:

• Reflection: Light bounces off the surface. Think of a mirror. 🪞
• Absorption: Light is converted into another form of energy, usually heat. This is why a black shirt gets hotter in the sun. 🔥
• Transmission: Light passes through the medium. Like light through a window. 🪟

#Reflection: Bouncing Back

• Specular Reflection: Occurs on smooth surfaces. The incoming light rays are reflected in an orderly way, preserving the image. Think of a mirror.

  

  Caption: Specular reflection on a smooth surface.

• Diffuse Reflection: Occurs on rough surfaces. Light rays are scattered in many directions. Think of a wall.

  

  Caption: Diffuse reflection on a rough surface.

#The Law of Reflection

When light reflects off a smooth surface:

• Incident Ray: The incoming light ray.
• Reflected Ray: The outgoing light ray.
• Normal Line: A line perpendicular to the surface at the point of incidence.
• Angle of Incidence (θi): The angle between the incident ray and the normal line.
• Angle of Reflection (θr): The angle between the reflected ray and the normal line.

Caption: Illustration of incident ray, reflected ray, and normal line.

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