What materials slow light waves down? Does it have to do something with the density? Please help me understand, medals will be given.

Question

What materials slow light waves down? Does it have to do something with the density? Please help  me understand, medals will be given.

anonymous · Answer

I don't understand your question... Light waves cannot be slowed down, they can only be reflected, refracted or absorved. If you are talking about the "broken straw" effect that you obtain through putting a straw into a cup filled with water, that is refraction of light, not "slowed light waves". If this did not help, you should look on the "Physics" study :)

wolfe8 · Answer

Actually, I believe light wave can be slowed down, as what happens during refraction. This is due to the fact that frequency does not change in $$v=f \lambda $$ Thus, speed has to change when the wavelength is kept constant. Waves move slower through materials of higher density, as in refraction of light. The slowing down of one end of the wavefront first causes the bending of the whole front. 

I might have used wrong terms btw but I think this is mostly correct. Please look up refraction of waves to be certain.

wolfe8 · Answer

And yes, this should have been in the physics section. You might have better and faster help there on this question.

anonymous · Answer

Thank you!

wolfe8 · Answer

You're welcome. I hope I am correct in helping you. Have a nice day.