Refraction & Speed (Edexcel GCSE Physics)

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Refraction & Speed

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  • When a wave hits a different medium the different parts of the wave enter the medium at different times
    • Hence, this leads to a change in speed

  • The difference in speed between the parts of the wave in the first medium and the parts in the second medium causes the wave to bend
    • Hence, this leads to a change in direction

  • Refraction can be represented using wavefront diagrams, as shown below:

wave-refraction, IGCSE & GCSE Physics revision notes

The different parts of the wave enter the second medium at different times causing the wave to bend

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Ashika

Author: Ashika

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Ashika graduated with a first-class Physics degree from Manchester University and, having worked as a software engineer, focused on Physics education, creating engaging content to help students across all levels. Now an experienced GCSE and A Level Physics and Maths tutor, Ashika helps to grow and improve our Physics resources.