Objective – Compare the reflection of light from various surfaces (e.g., loss of light, angle of reflection, reflected
color).
The Zig-Zag Race of Reflectors
(modified from an activity from NASA Treehouse Detectives)
Purpose
Demonstrate the reflection of light.
Vocabulary
 Angle of incidence - The angle at which light strikes a surface.
 Angle of reflection - The angle at which light bounces off a surface.
 Reflection - When rays of light or heat are reflected, or bounce off other objects.
Materials
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Laser pointer
4-5 mirrors
Ruler
Clay
3x5 card
Procedure
1. One student will hold the laser pointer.
2. On your tables, using clay to hold up the mirrors, place three mirrors in a straight line, between
12”-18” apart.
3. Opposite the three mirrors, place two mirrors.
4. Have the student with the laser pointer shine the light on the first mirror.
5. Set up your card at the end of the mirrors.
6. Your objective is to bounce the light off
your five mirrors and hit the 3x5 card.
Objective – Compare the reflection of light from various surfaces (e.g., loss of light, angle of reflection, reflected
color).
Names _______________________________________________________________________
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Absent _______________________________________________________________________
The Zig-Zag Race of Reflectors
(modified from an activity from NASA Treehouse Detectives)
Complete this worksheet after you complete the activity.
1. How is light from the laser pointer reflected?
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2. Describe the results of in this lab and what they mean.
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3. Explain how this demonstrates reflection of light.
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