Chapter 14.3, Problem 33SSC

To determine

To Explain: Whether two-dimensional waves cross a boundary between two mediums without changing direction.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

When a wave travels from one medium to another, it usually changes its direction of motion in the second medium. This phenomenon is known as refraction and the angle of refraction depends on the optical densities of the two media and incidence angle.

A two-dimensional wave can cross a boundary separating two mediums without changing its direction if it is incident normal to the boundary or has same speed in both mediums.