6A42.45-Stick in Water

Description: This demonstration shows the refraction of light from water to air.
When viewed at different angles, it looks like the top part of the stick is detached from the bottom.

Equipment:

• Tall glass container
• Ruler or wooden pole
• Water

Setup Procedure:

1. Fill the container up 2/3 with water.

Demonstration Procedure:

1. Insert the ruler or pole. Angle it slightly.
2. Note that it looks like the rule is discontinuous.
3. This is because of the refraction from the water-air surface.

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