Refraction demonstration, 1893

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Refraction demonstration, 1893

Refraction demonstration. 19th-century artwork of a demonstration of the principles of radiation and refraction. A beam of sunlight is passing through two holes in a sheet of card. One beam is passing through the air to strike the lower piece of card. The other beam is passing through water, and being refracted (bent). This also splits the light into its component colours, producing a partial solar spectrum. Artwork from the 12th volume (second period of 1893) of the French popular science weekly La Science Illustree

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Media ID 9200837

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1890s 1893 Annual Volume Beams Bent Color Colour Demonstrating Demonstration Demonstrator Education Educational Experiment Experimenting French La Science Illustree Light Louis Figuier Magazine Optical Optics Popular Science Refracted Refraction School Science Spectrum Sunlight Weekly Light Beam Physical Rainbow Colours

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EDITORS COMMENTS
This 19th-century artwork, titled "Refraction Demonstration, 1893" offers a glimpse into the fascinating world of radiation and refraction. The illustration showcases an educational experiment conducted by a European male demonstrator. Two holes in a sheet of card allow beams of sunlight to pass through, each taking a different path. One beam travels through the air and strikes the lower piece of card directly, while the other beam passes through water, resulting in its bending or refraction. The mesmerizing effect of this phenomenon is further enhanced as the refracted light splits into its component colors, creating a stunning partial solar spectrum reminiscent of a rainbow. This intricate demonstration not only highlights the physical properties of light but also serves as an engaging visual representation for scientific exploration. Originally featured in La Science Illustree, a popular French science weekly publication during that era, this artwork holds historical significance as it reflects both advancements in optics and educational practices at that time. Created by Louis Figuier and included in the annual volume from 1893, this monochrome print transports us back to an age when scientific discoveries were eagerly shared with curious minds around Europe. As we admire this remarkable piece from Science Photo Library's collection today, let us appreciate how it captures both the beauty and complexity inherent within natural phenomena like refraction while reminding us of humanity's enduring quest for knowledge throughout history.

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