* Change in Speed: The speed of the wave changes as it enters the new medium. This is because the wave's speed depends on the properties of the medium, such as its density and elasticity. For example, light travels slower in water than in air.
* Change in Direction: Due to the change in speed, the wave's direction also changes. This change in direction is called refraction. The amount of bending depends on the angle at which the wave strikes the boundary between the two media and the difference in speeds between the two media.
* Reflection: Some of the wave energy may also be reflected back into the original medium at the boundary. The amount of reflection depends on the angle of incidence and the properties of the two media.
Example:
Think of a straw in a glass of water. It appears bent at the surface of the water because light from the straw travels at different speeds in air and water. This bending of light is refraction.
Key Concepts:
* Refraction: The bending of a wave as it passes from one medium to another.
* Angle of incidence: The angle between the incoming wave and the normal (a line perpendicular to the boundary) to the surface.
* Angle of refraction: The angle between the refracted wave and the normal.
* Index of refraction: A measure of how much a medium slows down light.
Let me know if you'd like more detail on any of these concepts!
