Lucite Block and Laser

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Description:

A semi-circular piece of lucite is mounted on a white board. Laser light going through a cylindrical lens reflects off the board and also goes through the lens. Angles of reflection and refraction can be observed, as well as total internal reflection. A white light line source, such as an old slide projector with a slit slide, can also be used as a light source. Approaching total internal reflection, the students will be able to observe dispersion, and see that blue light is bent differently than red. (A white light line source is also a bit brighter for classroom use.)

Location:

• Laser and Cylindrical Lens: Shelf M-2
• Board and Lucite Lens: Shelf M-4
• Slide Projector: Shelf Q-4