Questions on Light

Q7. James's coin has rolled under a cupboard. It is dark under the cupboard, and he cannot see the coin even though the light is on. The diagram shows his problem.

(a) Explain why a shadow forms under the cupboard.

any one from

  • light cannot go through the cupboard
  • light cannot bend round the cupboard
  • light is absorbed by the cupboard

1 mark

(b) James uses a mirror to shine light from the light bulb onto the coin. He holds the mirror so that it touches the floor at point X.

(i) Draw the symbol for a mirror onto the diagram at point X to show the correct angle for him to hold the mirror at.

Mirror symbol (straight line with chevrons at the back) at approximately 45o to the floor - see diagram

2 marks

(ii) On the diagram, draw the ray of light from the bulb to the coin. Draw an arrow on the ray to show which way the light is travelling. Use a ruler.

  • ray from bulb to any part of mirror
  • ray from mirror to coin

Remember a ray is a solid line with an arrow on it - if you miss out the arrow it is not a ray!

2 marks

(iii) What is the correct scientific term that describe the ray of light after it hits the mirror.

Reflected ray

Not reflective ray

1 mark

Maximum 6 marks