MYP Physics Wave Phenomena Including Reflection, Refraction, Diffraction Notes

What Are Wave Phenomena?

1. As waves travel, they often interact with their surroundings.
2. Waves do not always continue in straight lines without change.
3. When a wave meets a surface, boundary, or opening, its direction or shape may change.
4. These changes in wave behaviour are called wave phenomena.
5. The same wave phenomena occur for all types of waves, including sound waves and water waves.
6. The key wave phenomena are reflection, refraction, and diffraction.

Reflection Changes Direction By Bouncing From A Surface

1. Reflection occurs when a wave meets a boundary and returns to the original medium.
2. Reflection happens when a wave strikes a surface and bounces back.
3. The wave remains in the same medium after reflection.
4. Reflection occurs for all waves, including sound and water waves.
5. The reflected wave still carries energy.

The Law Of Reflection Uses Angles To The Normal

1. The direction of a reflected wave follows a clear and predictable rule.
2. The incident wave is the wave that approaches the surface.
3. The reflected wave is the wave that leaves the surface.
4. The normal is an imaginary line drawn at right angles to the surface.
5. Angles are measured between the wave direction and the normal.
6. The angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection.

$$\theta_i = \theta_r$$

Specular And Diffuse Reflection Explain Images Versus Glare

1. The nature of the surface affects how waves reflect.
2. Smooth surfaces produce regular reflection, where reflected waves remain parallel.
3. Rough surfaces produce diffuse reflection, where waves reflect in many directions.
4. Diffuse reflection spreads wave energy over a wider area.

Refraction Bends Waves Because Their Speed Changes

1. When a wave enters a new medium, its speed changes.
2. Refraction occurs because wave speed changes.
3. Refraction happens when a wave passes from one medium into another.