Which of the following phenomena of light are involved in the formation of a rainbow?

(a) Reflection, refraction and dispersion

(b) Refraction, dispersion and total internal reflection

(c) Refraction, dispersion and internal reflection

(d) Dispersion, scattering and total internal reflection

 

Answer

The diagram below shows the formation of a rainbow.

  • White light enters the droplet and is dispersed as it is refracted. 
  • If the light falls at a critical angle (42°) it suffers total internal reflection 
  • It exits the raindrop after being refracted once again.

How is rainbow formed-01.jpg

So, the correct answer is (c)

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Maninder Singh

CA Maninder Singh is a Chartered Accountant for the past 14 years and a teacher from the past 18 years. He teaches Science, Economics, Accounting and English at Teachoo