What is the result of light refracting?

The result of light refracting is that light bends as it moves between different mediums. This bending occurs due to a change in the speed of light as it passes from one medium to another, such as from air into water or glass. Different materials have different densities, which affects how light travels through them. When light enters a medium with a different density, its speed changes, causing it to change direction. This phenomenon is described by Snell's Law, which specifies the relationship between the angles of incidence and refraction based on the indices of refraction of the two materials involved. Understanding this concept is essential in various applications, including optics and design of lenses.

In contrast, while light does indeed travel at different speeds in different mediums, it does not move faster in all mediums nor does it remain unchanged; light cannot maintain a straight path if it transitions between materials with varying refractive indices, and it will not remain constant as the properties of the medium alter its behavior.