Reflection and refraction both arise through interaction of incident light with the atomic constituents of matter. Atoms may be considered as oscillators which vibrate with the frequency of light. The frequency of light emitted by a charged oscillator equals its frequency of oscillation. Therefore, the frequency of both reflected as well as refracted light equals the frequency of incident light.
Class 12 Physics Chapter 10 Wave Optics Session 2024-2025.
Explain the following giving reasons : When monochromatic light is incident on a surface separating two media, the reflected and refracted light both have the same frequency as the incident frequency. Explain why.
Share
The frequency of light remains constant during reflection and refraction because it is determined by the source and cannot change at the boundary. A change in frequency would disrupt the continuity of the electromagnetic wave, violating energy conservation. Only the wavelength and speed adjust in the new medium, ensuring the wave’s frequency remains unchanged in both cases.
For more visit here:
https://www.tiwariacademy.com/ncert-solutions/class-12/physics/chapter-10/