National Academy of Engineering
Greatest Engineering Achievements of the 20th Century: Lasers & Fiber Optics
Learners investigate lasers and fiber optics in the 20th century. Some topics explored are working lasers, optical fiber, and the gossamer web. The resource includes historical information, a timeline, and a personal essay by a key...
Georgia State University
Georgia State University: Hyper Physics: Total Internal Reflection
This physics department site provides a definition and explanation of the phenomenon of total internal reflection. Includes a diagram and an equation for calculating the critical angle for light approaching a surface.
Other
United States Master Swimming: Fiber Aquatics
The principle of total internal reflection is discussed in this article. The appearance of objects from inside the water of a swimming pool is compared to the path of light in a fiber optic cable.
Optical Society
Optical Society of America: Optics for Kids: Guiding Light Optical Fiber
This experiment demonstrates the concept of total internal reflection, using basic materials. Accompanied by a detailed explanation of what's happening, and links to articles on reflection and refraction.
Optical Society
Optical Society of America: Optics for Kids: Make a Light Fountain
A simple experiment that demonstrates the concept of total internal reflection, and shows how light can travel around curves and corners, as it does in fiber-optic cables. Accompanied by an explanation of what's happening.