Refraction

Refraction is when light bends. This happens when light goes from one thing into another, like from air into water. The light changes speed and bends a little. This can make things look strange or different.

Bending Light

Light usually moves in straight lines. But when it enters water or glass, it slows down and bends. When it comes out, it speeds up again. That is why a straw in a glass of water looks broken. Your eye sees the light in a slightly different place than it really is.

Refraction in Daily Life

Refraction is used in many helpful ways. Eyeglasses bend light to help people see clearly. Cameras use lenses that bend light to take pictures. Even your own eyes use refraction to focus on things. Without refraction, telescopes and microscopes would not work.

Fun Facts

• Rainbows happen because water drops in the air bend sunlight.
• Fish in a pond look closer to the surface than they really are.
• Mirages in the desert are caused by light bending over hot sand.

Did You Know?

Light travels slower in water and glass than it does in air, which is what causes it to bend.