Light

By: Kyrah
What is light?
Light is an energy source that travels in waves, and we can
see these wavelengths of light in different colors. Some
light can be found in nature, like the sun, while other light
sources are created by people, such as flashlights. All light
has a source, and most light has heat energy.
Reflected light
Smooth, polished surfaces (like mirrors) are very good at
reflecting light. Plane mirrors are flat mirrors. When you
see your face in a plane mirror, you’re seeing light from
your face reflecting off the mirror. We call the reflection of
your face in the mirror your mirror image. When light from
an object reaches our eyes, we assume it has travelled in a
straight line. This is what usually happens. Reflected light
creates a second version- the mirror image- of the original
image.
How does light travel when it reflects?
Light travels in straight lines and reflects off things (just
like how a ball bounces). The brim of the hat blocks the
sun from hitting our eyes. Light reflects off objects and
allows us to see. Some objects reflect light very well, like
mirrors and white papers. Other objects, like brown
construction paper, do not reflect as much light.
Periscopes
A periscope is a simple device that enables us to see over
walls or round corners. Let’s imagine you’re seeing a golf
championship. The people in the front are blocking you.
You can use a periscope to see over their heads and see it
properly. It’s made of two mirrors at 45 degrees.
Refraction
Refraction happens when light changes direction, or bends,
when it moves from one material to another. For example,
light traveling through the air refracts when it hits water.
This can make a pencil in a glass of water look bent at the
surface of the water.
Optical illusions
Imagine that you’re looking at a fish in the water. You
think the fish is in a direct line from your eyes. This is
called an optical illusion.
Lenses
A lens is a piece of glass or other see-through material that
is curved on one or both sides. It is usually in the shape of
a circle. Lenses are used to bend light. This makes objects
seen through a lens look bigger or smaller than they really
are or seem to be.