Question 1
What phenomenon is responsible for the creation of rainbows?
- A. Reflection only
- B. Diffraction
- C. Refraction and reflection
- D. Polarization
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: C — Refraction and reflection
Rainbows are created by both refraction and reflection of sunlight within water droplets in the atmosphere. When sunlight enters a water droplet, it is refracted, then internally reflected, and finally refracted again as it exits the droplet. This process causes the separation of light into its component colors and the formation of a rainbow. Choice A is incorrect because rainbows are not solely formed by reflection. Choice B, diffraction, is not the primary phenomenon responsible for rainbows. Choice D, polarization, is not directly involved in the creation of rainbows. Therefore, the correct answer is C.