Reversing prisms

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.