Refraction of light in denser medium

In summary, light does not actually bend in a denser medium. Instead, its path bends at the interface of different density mediums due to the change in speed caused by the higher index of refraction. This phenomenon is known as refraction and is a result of the wave "bunching up" at the interface. Atomic physics is not the speaker's area of expertise, so they are unable to provide a more detailed explanation.
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aditya ver.2.0
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Why does light bend in a denser medium?
 
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aditya ver.2.0 said:
Why does light bend in a denser medium?
It doesn't. Light travels in a straight line in the medium, its path bends at the interface of different density mediums. After it bends it travels with a different speed.

Sorry I haven't answered your question, why. Atomic physics is not my field.
 
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A denser medium typically has a higher index of refraction. When a wave moves at an angle other than 90 degrees into a medium with a higher refractive index than it's currently traveling in, it slows down. The part of the wavefront still moving in the lower refractive index medium continues to move at a higher speed and the wave "bunches up" on itself at the interface, changing its direction. (Bunches up is a highly technical term that means that the wave does something I'm not certain how to describe. :p)
 
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Related to Refraction of light in denser medium

What is refraction of light in a denser medium?

Refraction of light in a denser medium refers to the bending of light as it passes through a material with a higher optical density. This can occur when light travels from air to water or from air to glass, for example.

How does refraction of light in a denser medium occur?

Refraction occurs because the speed of light changes when it passes from one medium to another. This change in speed causes the light to bend.

What factors affect the amount of refraction in a denser medium?

The amount of refraction in a denser medium depends on the angle of incidence, the difference in optical density between the two materials, and the wavelength of the light.

What is the relationship between the angle of incidence and the angle of refraction?

According to Snell's Law, the angle of incidence and the angle of refraction are related by the ratio of the two materials' optical densities. This relationship is known as the refractive index.

What are some real-life applications of refraction of light in denser media?

Refraction is used in a variety of optical devices, such as lenses in eyeglasses and cameras, as well as in the design of telescopes and microscopes. It is also used in the field of optics to study the properties of different materials.

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