How Light Travels (Part 3)

What You'll Learn

Light travels in straight lines and can be reflected, refracted, or absorbed. Mirrors reflect light, lenses refract (bend) light, and dark surfaces absorb light.

Key Words

observation
experiment
conclusion

Materials Needed

ruler
markers
popsicle sticks
pennies
plastic wrap

Safety First

Protect your work surface with newspaper or plastic.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Read and learn: Light travels in straight lines and can be reflected, refracted, or absorbed. Mirrors reflect light, lenses refract (bend) light, and dark surfaces absorb light.

Step 2 — Do

Measure and record your data in a table.

Step 3 — Observe

Compare the before and after states.

Step 4 — Record

Write your conclusion: did the results match your hypothesis?

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

What is sound?