# Refraction occurs when a wave changes speed as it moves from one medium to another. Explain what happens to a light wave when it travels from air into glass, referring to its speed, wavelength, frequency, and direction of travel.

> Eduqas A-Level Physics — 5.3 Electric and magnetic fields (A-Level only) · Explain · 5 marks

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. The speed of the light wave decreases as it enters the glass
2. The wavelength of the light wave decreases
3. The frequency of the light wave remains constant / does not change
4. The light wave changes direction / bends
5. The light bends towards the normal (because it is moving into a denser medium / slowing down)

## Key terms

- [refraction](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/refraction)
- [wavelength](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/wavelength)
- [frequency](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/frequency)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas A-Level Physics](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/refraction-occurs-when-a-wave-changes-68401e46) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.