Question:

What is dispersion of white light ? State its cause. Draw a diagram to show dispersion of a beam of white light by a glass prism.

Updated On: Dec 17, 2024
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Solution and Explanation

Dispersion of white light is the phenomenon of splitting of white light into its constituent colors (spectrum) when it passes through a prism or any other refracting medium.
Cause: Dispersion is caused by the different wavelengths of light refracting (bending) at dif- ferent angles when passing through a medium. The refractive index of a medium is slightly different for different wavelengths of light. Violet light (shorter wavelength) bends the most, while red light (longer wavelength) bends the least. This difference in refraction angles leads to the separation of colors. 
Diagram:
Dispersion of white light

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