IB Physics Sub-topic C3 Definitions
This page contains our IB Physics definitions for sub-topic C3. By learning each one of these definitions, you will fully cover the content for IB Physics 'Wave phenomena'.
Critical angle
It is the angle at which there is no refraction and complete reflection back into the medium
Diffraction
It is the spreading of waves after passing through apertures, resulting in an energy distribution in the geometric shadow region
Diffuse reflection
It is the reflection of several rays from a rough surface
Fringes
It is the pattern of light and dark regions formed by diffraction
Geometric shadow region
It is the region not in line with the aperture
Monochromatic source
It is a source that emits one frequency of light
Perfect reflection
It is the reflection of a single ray from a smooth surface
Reflection
It is the scattering of a wave when it hits a surface
Refraction
It is the change in direction of a wave when it crosses from one medium to another due to a change in wave speed
Total internal reflection
It is the complete reflection of a wave back into the medium
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