why does light refract?

Answer 1

When light travels though mediums of different density the light slows and can split into different wavelengths. Shorter wavelengths can travel faster than longer wavelengths through th medium.This can be seen in a glass prism. Light travels through the air and passes through the prism. The prism is a different density than air so the light ca split into its different wavelengths. This can also be seen as hot mirages on roadways on hot days. Air heated by the road has a different density, as light passes through the hot (less dense) air it bends slightly causing a shimmering effect. A simple way of explaining it is, refraction is the bending of light.

Answer 2

Light comes in different wavelengths. Any substance that transmits (as opposed to completely absorbing) light interacts with different wavelengths differently. This difference leads to some wavelengths traveling different paths through that substance and refraction is a consequence of these different paths.

I have to tell you that my answer is a very simplistic one. A better answer would be a probability distribution that would take into account the quantum nature of light and it's interactions. But, the result is the same.

You did say refract and not reflect, right?

Answer 3

it energizes the electrons in metal
since their quantum of energy isnt met anymore, they jump an energy level. but once the electrons in a metal jump back to their quantum (lowest possible energy an electron can hold), it releases energy in the form of light. so the light that is reflected off metal is just a form of electricity sort of
hope this helps

Answer 4

light is just photon molecules bouncing around.
I guess it's easier for the molecules to bounce on shinier surfaces?