Prism and White Light

In the picture

1. 1The narrow white beam: incoming white light before it enters the glass
2. 2The entry point on the prism face: where the white beam bends into the glass
3. 3The red edge of the spectrum: the colour bent the least
4. 4The violet edge of the spectrum: the colour bent the most

Examples

• A rainbow after rain
• Colours reflected from a compact disc

Quiz: Prism and White Light (Age 15)

1. 1

   What happens to white light when it passes through a glass prism?

   • It stays as a single white beam.
   • It is absorbed and only green light passes through.
   • It separates into a spectrum of colours.
2. 2

   Which colour is bent the most by the prism?

   • Green
   • Red
   • Violet
3. 3

   Why do the colours of white light spread apart in a prism?

   • Because the prism adds new colours to the light.
   • Because each colour is bent by a different amount.
   • Because all colours are bent equally by the glass.

The answers, each with its explanation, are in the app. This lesson has left the free week, so its quiz is part of the subscription.