Question:

For which colour of light, the angle of deviation by a prism is maximum ?

Show Hint

Remember the acronym VIBGYOR for the order of colours in the visible spectrum. Violet has the shortest wavelength and deviates the most, while Red has the longest wavelength and deviates the least when passing through a prism.
Updated On: Jun 5, 2025
  • Red
  • Yellow
  • Blue
  • Violet
Hide Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understand the phenomenon of dispersion of light by a prism.
When white light passes through a prism, it splits into its constituent colours (VIBGYOR - Violet, Indigo, Blue, Green, Yellow, Orange, Red). This phenomenon is called dispersion. The extent to which a colour of light bends (deviates) depends on its wavelength and the refractive index of the prism material for that specific wavelength. Step 2: Relate angle of deviation to wavelength and refractive index.
The angle of deviation is inversely proportional to the wavelength of light. Colours with shorter wavelengths deviate more. The refractive index of a material is generally higher for shorter wavelengths. Step 3: Compare wavelengths of different colours.
In the visible spectrum (VIBGYOR), violet light has the shortest wavelength, and red light has the longest wavelength. Step 4: Determine which colour deviates the most.
Since violet light has the shortest wavelength among the visible colours, it experiences the maximum deviation when passing through a prism. Conversely, red light, having the longest wavelength, deviates the least. Step 5: Compare the conclusion with the given options.
Among the given options, Violet light will have the maximum angle of deviation. $$(4) Violet$$
Was this answer helpful?
0
0