Question

A solid sphere is kept on a planar surface. Parallel rays of light are falling on it as shown in the image. Which option correctly represents the shadow cast by the sphere on the planar surface?

• A.

  

• B.

  

• C.

  

• D.

  

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

To determine the shadow cast by the solid sphere on a planar surface with parallel light rays, we need to understand some key concepts in optics and geometry of shadows.

Concepts Involved:

• Light and Shadow: When light rays hit an object, they cannot pass through it, creating a shadow on the opposite side.
• Shape of Shadow: For a sphere, the shadow typically displays as a circular shape under uniform lighting conditions with parallel rays.

Detailed Explanation:

Given the scenario with a solid sphere and parallel light rays, we can predict the shadow's characteristics. The rays are parallel (uniform lighting), so the shadow pattern should be consistent and predictable with a particular setup:

• Uniformity: Parallel rays will cast a shadow that mirrors the geometry of the sphere along the surface it rests on.
• Circular Cross-Section: As the sphere is symmetric in all directions when projected on a plane perpendicular to the rays, the resulting shadow will typically take a circular form.
• Dimensional Consistency: The size of the shadow on the surface directly under the sphere aligns with the sphere's circular base in contact with the plane.

Analysis of provided options should focus on selecting the option depicting a shadow appearance that matches these descriptions.

Selection and Conclusion:

From the provided options, the first image correctly represents the circular shadow cast by a sphere when exposed to parallel light rays.