Light rays: reflection, refraction and lens images
Measure ray angles from the normal, use reflection and refraction, and build real and virtual lens images step by step before connecting the diagrams to quantities and signs.
Subject area
Online Optics Tutoring
Understand image formation and wave optics, from rays and lenses to interference, diffraction, and polarization.
Start with a concept you would like explained or a question you do not yet know how to begin. A course outline or an attempted solution can help if you have one. We confirm the level, topics and availability before booking. Tutoring sessions are currently offered in English. In-person options in Montréal
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Browse courses in this subjectTopics covered
Reflection and refractionMirrors and lensesRay diagramsInterferenceDiffractionPolarization
Common difficulties
- Applying sign conventions
- Connecting ray diagrams to equations
- Reasoning about phase and path differences
How tutoring can help
We establish geometry and sign conventions with careful diagrams before calculating. Wave-optics problems grow from path differences toward the observed result.
Single-slit diffraction or two-slit interference?
Read the aperture diagram, find the first dark boundaries, and explain which spacing changes when the slit width or the separation between the slit centres doubles.
Independent practice
Free study guides and practice
Exam preparation
Book a LessonWhat to practise
Exam preparation can combine ray diagrams with calculations for image formation, interference, and diffraction.