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Internal reflection on a watch glass surrounded by water: A simple experiment and a variation

Reflexão total em um vidro de relógio mergulhado em água: Um experimento simples e uma variação

When a watch is submerged in water, an observer might come to realize that the glass surface appears silver, like a mirror, due to internal reflection. However, it is not possible to clearly identify in which surface - internal or external - this reflection occurs. An experimental variation is proposed, using a thicker glass, allowing better identification of the inner surface as the reflector, along with hints for qualitative and quantitative discussions.

refraction; internal reflection; experiment


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