Refraction

Written by Marcia Malory

When light moves from one transparent substance to another, the light appears to bend. This is called refraction.

1 penny
1 bowl
Water

Have a friend watch you place a penny underneath an empty bowl so it is just out of his or her view, being hidden by the rim of the bowl.

Tell your friend that you can bring the penny into view without moving the bowl or the coin.

Pour water gently into the bowl, so that the coin is not disturbed.

As the bowl fills, the refracted rays of light will gradually cause the penny seem to float into view.

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