Total Internal Reflection
The Total Internal Reflection Video Tutorial discusses the nature of the reflection and refraction of light at the boundary. The discussion leads to an explanation of what total internal reflection is and when it occurs. Numerous graphics and animations assist in the explanations.
The video lesson answers the following questions:
- What is total internal reflection?
- Under what conditions will total internal reflection occur?
Video
You can watch the video below, or click here to watch on YouTube (opens in a new tab).
To improve the effectiveness of the learning experience, The Physics Classroom has provided the following tools:
Additional and Related Learning Tools
Physics Interactive, Refraction and Lenses Chapter, Refraction Simulation
Sometimes you learn best by playing. And our simulations allow you to do just that. Our Refraction simulation allows you to explore the variables that impact the amount of light energy that reflects and the amount that refracts. Explore TIR using our simulation and then follow it up with a Concept Checker on the same topic
Concept Builders, Reflection and Refraction Chapter: Total Internatl Reflection
Concept Builders will help do what it's name boasts of - build a concept. This Concept Builder will test your understanding of the requirements for total internal reflection. Do it now or do it after you've watched this video and the next one on the Critical Angle.
Minds On Physics, Refraction and Lenses Module, Mission RL5
Student persistence with Minds On Physics combined with reflective thinking (no pun intended) and the use of our Help function will put any student at the top of the class. This mission pertains to total internal reflection.
The Physics Classroom Tutorial, Refraction and the Ray Model of Light, Lesson 3, Boundary Behavior
Our written tutorial pages form the basis of most videos. So when you need a quick reference, the Tutorial page is a great place to start. This page provides coverage of the first few slides of the video.
The Physics Classroom Tutorial, Refraction and the Ray Model of Light, Lesson 3, Total Internal Reflection
Our written tutorial pages form the basis of most videos. So when you need a quick reference, the Tutorial page is a great place to start. This page provides coverage of the last 3-4 slides of the video.
Teacher Resources
Curriculum Corner, Refraction and Lenses
Our Curriculum Corner section of the website includes a large collection of Think Sheets that make great complements to the video. Each Think Sheet focuses on a single concept and is structured to incrementally guide a student through the concept. They make for great follow-ups to the video, good cooperative group activities, and inclusions in any lesson plan. And if you need source documents (Microsoft Words), extended licensing rights, and solutions, consider the purchase of our low-cost Solutions Guide download. Here's a Think Sheet that fits the video quite well:
Total Internal Reflection
Physics Interactives, Refraction and Lenses Section, Refraction
Our refraction simulation provides a great environment for students to explore what happens when light reaches the boundary between two materials. Combine the simulation with the use of one of our student activity sheets (we have an exceptional one on TIR) and the accompanying Concept Checker and you will have the start of a great lesson plan.
Concept Builders, Reflection and Refraction Chapter: Total Internatl Reflection
Concept Builders will help do what it's name boasts of - build a concept. This Concept Builder will test your understanding of the requirements for total internal reflection. Do it now or do it after you've watched this video and the next on the Critical Angle.
Minds On Physics, Refraction and Lenses Module, Mission RL5
Student persistence with Minds On Physics combined with reflective thinking and the use of our Help function will put any student at the top of the class. This mission pertains to total internal reflection.
The Physics Classroom Tutorial, Refraction and the Ray Model of Light, Lesson 3, Boundary Behavior
Our written tutorial pages form the basis of most videos. So when you need a quick reference, the Tutorial page is a great place to start. This page provides coverage of the first few slides of the video.
The Physics Classroom Tutorial, Refraction and the Ray Model of Light, Lesson 3, Total Internal Reflection
Our written tutorial pages form the basis of most videos. So when you need a quick reference, the Tutorial page is a great place to start. This page provides coverage of the last 3-4 slides of the video.
Lesson Notes
Download (opens in a new tab) or view below
Slides
Do you like the slides we used? They are available in our low cost Teacher Presentation Pack, along with other updated materials used in our presentation.