Shape of shadow in Light, Shadows and images – Class 6 Science Experiment

Chapter Name: Light, Shadows and images

Activity Name: Shape of shadow in Light, Shadows and images

Activity Description:

Required Items:

1. Book
2. Pen
3. Duster
4. Ball
5. Round plate
6. Sunlight
7. Drawing materials (paper, pencil, ruler)

Step by Step Procedure:

1. Find a sunny location where you can conduct the experiment undisturbed.
2. Place the book, pen, duster, ball, and round plate one by one in the sunlight.
3. Observe the shadows formed by each object and note down your observations.
4. Rotate each object to different positions and observe how the shadows change. Take notes of any noticeable differences.
5. Hold the pen horizontally and observe the shadow, then hold it vertically and observe the new shadow. Record any changes you observe.
6. Rotate the duster to different positions and observe the variations in the shadows. Take note of the differences.
7. Answer the questions based on your observations regarding the similarities and differences in the shadows.
   • Is there any similarity between the shadows of a ball and a plate? If yes, what?
   • What change do you observe in the shadows formed when you hold the pen horizontally and then vertically?
   • What differences do you observe in the shadows when the duster is kept in different positions by rotating it?
   • Why are the shapes of the shadows of the same object different when you change the position of the object?
8. Refer to Figures 9(a) and 9(b) for the objects’ shadows, the path of light, and their formation. Study these figures to understand how light travels and shadows are formed.
9. Draw the shadows of the objects given in Figures 9(c) and 9(d) based on your understanding. Extend the path of light and draw the shadow on the given screen.
10. Ensure your drawings reflect the assumption that light travels in straight rays.

Experiment Observations:

1. Record your observations for each object’s shadow and the changes you notice when rotating or changing positions.
2. Note any similarities between the shadows of the ball and the plate.
3. Describe the changes observed when holding the pen horizontally and vertically.
4. Identify the differences observed in the shadows of the duster when rotated.
5. Reflect on why the shapes of the shadows change when the object’s position is changed.

Precautions:

1. Ensure you conduct the experiment in a safe and well-lit area.
2. Be cautious when handling objects to avoid any accidents or injury.
3. Do not stare directly at the sun or expose your eyes to direct sunlight for an extended period.
4. Take care when rotating objects to avoid dropping or damaging them.

Lesson Learnt from Experiment:

Through this experiment, you will learn that the position and orientation of an object affect the shape and size of its shadow. By observing shadows and analyzing their changes, you can understand that light travels in straight lines.

This experiment helps in comprehending the relationship between light, shadows, and the objects that cast them, contributing to a deeper understanding of the principles of light and optics.