When an empty test tube is held slantingly in a beaker of water and viewed from above, the bottom of the test tube seems to be filled with mercury or a similar shiny liquid. If you repeat with the test tube filled with water, the mercury or shiny liquid disappear. Explain why.
Also....
If a plane mirror is hung on the wall and you are standing in front of it, then when you move towards or away from the mirror it does not affect how much of yourself you see (only a smaller or larger version of the same parts). Also, the wall or other objects behind you is affected differently. More of the rear wall can be seen the closer you are to the mirror but less when you are further away. Explain this difference.
If you can help me with these two questions, I'll give you 10 points!!
2007-03-11 08:59:09 · 1 answers · asked by fuilui213 6 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Physics
(a) The way the bottom of the test tube is shaped seems to reflect light differently for acute angles than for obtuse. When water is added the test tube optically becomes a solid object since the index of refraction for glass is close to water. (Snell's law)
(b) Graphical explanation is the best. I recommend that you build a image for both cases after you visit this site. http://www.physicsclassroom.com/mmedia/optics/ifpm.html
Just replace the circle with a vertical rod signifying a person.
2007-03-13 07:48:30 · answer #1 · answered by Edward 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋