1. Wave Interactions

2. Reflection
Refraction
Diffraction
Interference

3. 1. Reflection: wave bounces back after striking a barrier
When a wave hits a reflecting surface, it is reflected outwards at the same angle as it came in.

4. 1. Reflection
Reflected light beam
Incident light beam
Mirror

5. 1. Reflection

6. 2. Refraction:
bending of a wave as it passes at an angle from one medium to another

7. 2. Refraction

8. 2. Refraction:

9. 2. Refraction
Different wavelengths bend at different angles, which is what makes a prism able to separate white light into all its colors
Refracted Colors
Air
White Light
Glass Prism

10. 2. Refraction
Refraction is also what makes lenses work. Light bends when it goes from air to glass.
Air
Incoming light
Focused light
Lens

11. 3. Diffraction
bending of waves around a barrier or through an opening

12. 3. Diffraction

13. 4. Interference result of two or more waves overlapping
When two waves run into one another they:
ADD if 2 crests or 2 troughs overlap
SUBTRACT if the crests and troughs overlap

14. 4. Interference