Shedding Light on How We See

Light is a form of electromagnetic wave that allows us to see the world. Optics is the study of how light behaves, including reflection, refraction, and how lenses work.

How Light Travels

• Light can travel through empty space at a speed of about \( 3 \times 10^8 \) meters per second.
• It can be reflected from surfaces (like mirrors) or refracted (bent) as it passes through materials (like water or glass).

Uses of Optics

• Eyeglasses and cameras use lenses to focus light.
• Telescopes and microscopes help us see things that are far away or very small.

Everyday Importance

• Rainbows form when sunlight refracts through raindrops.
• Fiber optic cables transmit information as light pulses for the internet.

Why It Matters

Studying light helps us understand vision, design technology, and even explore the universe.