To effectively model why a quarter at the bottom of a pool of water appears to be in a different position than expected, the student should focus on how light behaves when it transitions between air and water. Here's the evaluation of the options:
A. Arrows showing light waves bouncing off the surface of the water.
This could illustrate reflection, but it does not specifically address the bending of light when entering the water.
B. Arrows showing light waves spreading out as they enter the water.
This option does not accurately represent the phenomenon since light does not spread out in this manner when it enters a denser medium like water; it primarily bends.
C. Arrows showing multiple light waves traveling straight through the water.
While this shows light traveling in the water, it does not explain the bending that affects the viewer's perception of the quarter's position.
D. Arrows showing bending light waves as the light enters the water from the air.
This option is the most relevant because it illustrates refraction, the bending of light as it moves from one medium (air) to another (water). This bending is key to understanding why the quarter appears in a different position than expected.
Conclusion: The student’s model should definitely include D. Arrows showing bending light waves as the light enters the water from the air. This will accurately depict the refraction of light, which leads to the visual distortion of the quarter's position.