Question

practice it!
select the statement(s) that accurately describe the refraction of light.
light waves can speed up and slow down when traveling through different media.
the lower the index of refraction, the more the medium bends the light waves.
refraction occurs when parallel light waves strike the object.
the higher the index of refraction, the more the medium bends the light waves.
light waves appear to bend as a result of refraction.

Explanation:

• Light waves can speed up and slow down when traveling through different media: This is correct. The speed of light changes depending on the medium (e.g., slower in water than in air).
• The lower the index of refraction, the more the medium bends the light waves: Incorrect. A lower refractive index means less bending. The formula \(n = \frac{\sin\theta_1}{\sin\theta_2}\) (Snell's law) shows that a lower \(n\) (index of refraction) corresponds to less deviation of light.
• Refraction occurs when parallel light waves strike the object: Incorrect. Refraction occurs when light passes from one medium to another, not just when it strikes an object. Reflection occurs when light strikes an object (and bounces back).
• The higher the index of refraction, the more the medium bends the light waves: Correct. Using Snell's law \(n = \frac{\sin\theta_1}{\sin\theta_2}\), a higher \(n\) (for the second - medium) means a larger change in the angle of the light ray (more bending).
• Light waves appear to bend as a result of refraction: Correct. This is an observable phenomenon of refraction. For example, a straw in a glass of water appears bent.

Answer:

Light waves can speed up and slow down when traveling through different media; The higher the index of refraction, the more the medium bends the light waves; Light waves appear to bend as a result of refraction.