1. Module 5

1.16. Page 5

Lesson 3

Module 5—Wave Theory of Light

 

Reflect and Connect

 

A photograph shows a very large communication satellite dish in a field.

Robert Glusic/Photodisc/Getty Images

Large reflecting telescopes are related to television projection systems by the law of reflection. They are both examples of technology based on the law of reflection. Can you think of other devices designed around the law of reflection? Can these devices be understood easily with ray diagrams? For example, mirrors work well to reflect visible light, but are there other materials that act like mirrors for other types of EMR, such as those used for radar and satellite communication?

 

The photo on the right shows a satellite communication dish. Notice that it is very similar in style to that of a Newtonian telescope. Can you tell where the focal point is? What kind of an “image” forms there?

 

Satellite dishes are a good illustration of how much technology has evolved over the last 300 years without deviating from the laws of reflection.

 

Module 5: Lesson 3 Assignment

 

Remember to submit the Module 5: Lesson 3 Assignment to your teacher.