1. Explore

Reflection occurs when light bounces off a surface. This phenomenon is responsible for the images seen in mirrors and many reflective surfaces. The law of reflection states that the angle of incidence (the angle between the incoming light and the normal to the surface) is equal to the angle of reflection.

Transmission: Light passes through a medium. Refraction occurs when light passes from one medium into another and changes direction. This happens because the speed of light changes when traveling through materials with different optical densities. A common example of refraction can be observed when a straw placed in a glass of water appears bent.

Absorption occurs when a material takes in light energy and converts it into other forms of energy, such as heat. The colors we see in objects are closely related to absorption: materials absorb certain wavelengths of light and reflect others.

Emission occurs when atoms or molecules release energy in the form of light. This can occur in phenomena such as fluorescence, phosphorescence, and the light produced by LEDs.

Scattering: Light is redirected in multiple directions when it hits small particles or uneven surfaces. 

Understanding these interactions requires students to observe real-world examples and connect them with physical explanations. During the Explore phase, teachers encourage students to actively observe and identify these phenomena in everyday situations.