What is produced when light is dispersed by a prism?

What is produced when light is dispersed by a prism?

• A. A beam of monochromatic light
• B. A color spectrum
• C. A reflection of the light source
• D. An interference pattern

Answer: (B)

When light is dispersed by a prism, it results in the formation of a color spectrum. This phenomenon occurs because different wavelengths of light travel at slightly different speeds when passing through the prism material, leading to varying degrees of bending or refraction. As white light—such as sunlight—enters the prism, it is split into its component colors, typically represented as red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet. This process of dispersion allows us to see the distinct colors that make up white light, demonstrating the wave nature of light and its interaction with materials. The alignment of the prism's surfaces and the specific angle of incidence contribute to the separation of colors, emphasizing that the output is indeed a spectrum rather than a single color or beam. Understanding this concept connects directly to the study of optics and the behavior of light, showcasing fundamental principles such as refraction, wavelength, and the electromagnetic spectrum.

When light is dispersed by a prism, it results in the formation of a color spectrum. This phenomenon occurs because different wavelengths of light travel at slightly different speeds when passing through the prism material, leading to varying degrees of bending or refraction. As white light—such as sunlight—enters the prism, it is split into its component colors, typically represented as red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet.

This process of dispersion allows us to see the distinct colors that make up white light, demonstrating the wave nature of light and its interaction with materials. The alignment of the prism's surfaces and the specific angle of incidence contribute to the separation of colors, emphasizing that the output is indeed a spectrum rather than a single color or beam.

Understanding this concept connects directly to the study of optics and the behavior of light, showcasing fundamental principles such as refraction, wavelength, and the electromagnetic spectrum.