Reflection
This experiment should be tried during the background study of light and sound. The students will be in the process of exploring various books on the topic..
Directions:
Using a hinged picture frame, cover one side with a mirrored surface and the other side with white paper. Adjust the frame to approximate right angles.
In a darkened room shine a beam of light (flashlight, penlight, etc.) into the mirror. Notice how the light is reflected onto the paper. Observe the light bouncing off the mirror onto the other surface.
Explore variations on this theme by:
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Partially covering the light source
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Varying the distance between the light and the mirror
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Experimenting with a pulsing light source
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Taping shapes or designs on a flashlight beam
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Covering the light source with colored cellophane
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Changing the color or texture of the reflection surface
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Replacing the white paper with another mirror
Materials:
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light source: flashlight, penlight, candle, etc.
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hinged frame
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two mirrors, and or mirrored surfaces
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white paper, colored paper, cardboard, textured board, etc.
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general craft supplies: scissors, tape, paper, colored cellophane, pencils, markers, etc.
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