Principle

In this experiment, the students get to know another
special case of refraction of light at a prism which has great
importance for technological applications (the construction of
optical instruments). The students should recognise and
understand the possibility of using a right-angled prism for
reversing the path of light. Through the investigation and
explanation of the light path, the understanding of the law of
refraction as well as of the total internal reflection is
strengthened. As the experiment entails the careful observation and
marking of the light path of two crossing light beams, the
experiment is more demanding in terms of the abilities and
experimental skills required of the students.

Benefits


Multifunctional light box - All-in-one: Can be used for geometric optics on the table, colour mixing and on an optical bench

Extension with others sets at anytime, no additional light sources needed, recognition value for students



Tasks

A bewildering prism? Investigate the course of two light beams
at a parallel incidence to the hypotenuse of a right-angled
prism.