The Path of Light - Essay Example

The surface and the position of the images of the reflective surface can be inverted and in other cases depending on the arrangement of the surfaces form many images. The structure and path that the light follows are therefore dependent on the surface and the origin of the light at the source. The reflective surfaces differ from curved surfaces to mirrors that reflect the light and form an inverted image (Keller et al 29). In addition, if the image is reflected across two mirrors there is the formation of many similar images are formed through reflection.
Curved surfaces on the other hand form images depending on whether the surface is concave or convex with each surface forming its unique form of an image (Kokhanovsky 107). This is a result of the path that the light takes once it hits the curved surface and the eventual image that is illustrated on a screen. Similarly, some images are formed from shiny surfaces that are brighter and more reflective while the darker images form unique and distinct images depending on whether the surface can let any light pass through. The surface is therefore an important part of understanding the path of light since it forms different images depending on the surface.

Different methods can be used to make an experiment and establish the path of light and how the light travels from one source to another. One of the experiments uses cardboard that is placed in a straight line with holes on the same point. The cards are used to show that when one illuminates light at one end the light is seen at the other end when the cards are arranged in a straight line. However, if one of the cards is located in a different position or the hole on the cards is not in congruence then there is no image formed at the other end. The light does not move to the other cards since it does not travel in curves.

However, it is important to note that if there are reflective surfaces that are used in such an experiment and are located perfectly there is a chance that light can travel along corners (Riley 81). Although one can observe the light albeit not curved surfaces there is a need to position the reflective surfaces at very specific angles to ensure that the light reflected can be visible (Beerson and Mayer 109). Light travels on a straight line and therefore there is a need for the surfaces to be placed at right angles for the light to be reflected through the corners. The experiments are therefore important in coming up with equipment and items that are meant to be used in different areas such as the submarines. Read More