Optics > Geometric Optics > Refraction DCS# 6A40.40
VARIABLE INDEX OF REFRACTION DISPLAY
APPARATUS
plexiglas tank 101-13-C
sugar 202-02-A
laser pointer
 202-21-B6
laser pointer power adapter
 101-02-B1
funnel 101-01-D
stirring rod
 101-01-E1
DC power supply
 202-08-D
display case switch
 202-08-D
podium lamp
 202-09-B

DESCRIPTION
The tank contains sugar-water whose concentration increases with depth.  Shine a laser through the tank.  The light follows a curved path through the refractive index gradient as shown above.  Or aim the laser downward and the beam will curve toward the bottom of the tank and reflect:
 
 
NOTES

REFERENCES

The Physics Teacher, Nov 93, p. 476.