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Edexcel IGCSE Physics · Spec 3.15-3.17

Reflection & Refraction of Light

How light reflects and refracts, shown with ray diagrams.

Physics revision video

Reflection & Refraction of Light

Spec 3.15-3.17

What you need to know

  • State the law of reflection
  • Explain why light refracts at a boundary
  • Describe investigating rays with a glass block

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Quick check

Answer each question before opening the answer.

State the law of reflection.

The angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection.

What is refraction and why does it happen?

The change in direction of light as it passes between media, caused by a change in its speed.

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