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Light is considered a self-propagating wave. So it does not need a medium, which is why it reaches the earth from the sun. The mediums which dont absorb the light (and therefore allow light to travel through it) depend on the wave length of light. For example a gamma ray (has a very short wavelength) can travel through metal and takes a block of lead to absorb it.

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What happens to the distance between waves (wavelength) when light passes through different mediums?

When light passes through different mediums, such as air, water, or glass, the distance between waves (wavelength) can change. This is because the speed of light varies in different mediums, causing the wavelength to either increase or decrease.


Why do light waves travel faster in a vacuum than in other mediums?

Light waves travel faster in a vacuum than in other mediums because there are no particles in a vacuum to slow down or scatter the waves. This allows light to move at its maximum speed, which is about 186,282 miles per second.


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How does polarization by scattering affect the propagation of light in different mediums?

Polarization by scattering affects the propagation of light in different mediums by causing the light waves to align in a specific direction. This can result in changes to the intensity and color of the light as it travels through the medium.


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Transmission occurs when light waves pass through a boundary between two different mediums, while reflection occurs when light waves bounce off the boundary. Transmission allows light to continue traveling through the new medium, while reflection causes light to change direction and bounce back.


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