Refraction of Waves

Is the change in the direction of the waves as they pass from one Medium to another due to change in speed

NOTE:-

Ø  The speed of the wave depends on the Medium through which it travels.

Ø  Refraction is accompanied by a change in the wavelength of the wave.

Example:

When water waves travel from a deep part to a shallow part the wavelength decreases

Wavelength decreases but frequency remains constant 

Refraction of water waves

V₁ = Velocity of waves through first Medium.

V₂ = Velocity of waves through second Medium

APPLICATIONS OF REFRACTION OF WAVES

i)                Used in optical instrument which focus or spread light (Microscope and telescope)

ii)              Used in the dispersion of light waves.

iii)             Is used to determine the eye’s refractive errors in machines.