1. Refraction:
* The wave changes direction. This is because the speed of the wave changes as it enters the new medium. The denser the medium, the slower the wave travels. This change in speed causes the wave to bend.
* The amount of refraction depends on the angle of incidence (the angle at which the wave hits the boundary between the two media) and the difference in the speeds of the wave in the two media.
* Example: Light refracting through a prism or water.
2. Reflection:
* Some of the wave's energy is reflected back into the original medium. The amount of reflection depends on the difference in densities between the two media.
* Example: Light reflecting off a mirror, sound waves bouncing off a wall.
3. Transmission:
* Some of the wave's energy passes through the boundary into the new medium. The amount of transmission also depends on the difference in densities.
* Example: Light passing through a window, sound waves passing through a door.
4. Change in Wavelength and Frequency:
* The wavelength of the wave may change as it passes from one medium to another. The frequency of the wave, however, remains the same.
* This change in wavelength is related to the change in speed. The denser the medium, the shorter the wavelength becomes.
5. Attenuation:
* The amplitude of the wave can decrease as it travels through the new medium. This is due to energy loss through absorption or scattering.
* Example: Light being absorbed by a dark surface, sound waves losing energy as they travel through air.
In summary:
When a wave encounters a boundary between two media of different densities, it experiences refraction, reflection, transmission, and may undergo a change in wavelength and attenuation. The specific behavior depends on the properties of the two media, the angle of incidence, and the type of wave.
