University Physics with Modern Physics (14th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0321973615
ISBN 13: 978-0-32197-361-0

Chapter 33 - The Nature and Propagation of Light - Problems - Discussion Questions - Page 1104: Q33.8

Answer

This is because of total internal reflection.

Work Step by Step

As seen in Figure 33.13a, an upward-directed ray of light from your fish may strike the water-air interface at an angle greater than the critical angle for water and air. This causes the surface to act like a mirror and to reflect the light ray back down into the water, where you can see it.
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