An entertaining method of teaching concepts of linear light propagation, reflection and refraction using a simple optical mechanism

Abstract

An activity has been designed for the purpose of teaching how light is dispersed in a straight line and about the interaction between matter and light as well as the related concepts of shadows, partial shadows, reflection, refraction, primary colours and complementary (secondary) colours, and differentiating the relationship between colours, all with a focus on transferring this knowledge to everyday life. In addition, the activity offers a scientific answer to a question that frequently comes up in daily life and in schools: 'Is there such a thing as a coloured shadow?' © 2009 IOP Publishing Ltd.