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A Geometric Approach to Fermat Principle as a Demonstration of High School Geometry and Physical Optics

Authors :
Kao, W. F.
Source :
Physics Education. Jul 2021 56(4).
Publication Year :
2021

Abstract

Fermat's principle states that a light ray refracted across different media will traverse the fastest path as the physics for Snell's law. A geometric proof of Fermat's principle will be demonstrated as an intuitive approach to learn high school geometry and physical optics. It will be proved explicitly by showing that all alternative paths need more traversal time to complete their journey.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
0031-9120
Volume :
56
Issue :
4
Database :
ERIC
Journal :
Physics Education
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
EJ1306669
Document Type :
Journal Articles<br />Reports - Descriptive
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1088/1361-6552/abfb45