MasteryExams
General Science • PhysicsEasy

Which optical phenomenon is responsible for the formation of a rainbow in the sky?

A. Only Reflection
B. Only Refraction
C. Dispersion, refraction and total internal reflection✓ Correct Answer
D. Scattering of light

💡 Solution & Explanation

The formation of a rainbow is an optical phenomenon that requires sunlight to undergo refraction as it enters a water droplet, dispersion into component colors, and total internal reflection from the inner surface before refracting out toward the observer. Relying on only reflection or refraction alone fails to account for the splitting of colors and the internal pathway of light rays.

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