STAAR Prep: Light Flashcards
(12 cards)
What is the definition of absorb?
To take in
Absorption of light occurs when light energy is taken in by a material.
What is a lens?
A curved piece of glass that bends light rays to make objects appear closer or farther away
Lenses are used in glasses, cameras, and microscopes.
Define light energy.
The energy of photons that travel in straight lines in waves; energy we can see
Light energy is essential for photosynthesis in plants.
What does it mean to magnify?
To make something appear larger
Magnification is often used in scientific instruments like microscopes.
What is a medium in the context of light?
The matter that light travels through (water, air, glass)
The speed of light varies depending on the medium.
What does opaque mean?
Allowing no light to pass through
Opaque materials cannot be seen through.
What is a prism?
A three-dimensional piece of glass that separates white light into a spectrum of colors
Prisms demonstrate the dispersion of light.
Define reflect.
To bounce back light rays from a smooth, shiny surface
Reflection is how we see objects in mirrors.
What does refract mean?
To bend light rays as it moves through different mediums
Refraction is responsible for the bending of light in water.
What does translucent mean?
Allowing some light to pass through
Translucent materials scatter light, making objects blurry.
What does transmit mean?
To move through
Transmission of light is crucial for visibility.
What does transparent mean?
Allowing almost all light to pass through
Transparent materials, like clear glass, can be seen through clearly.
