MCAT Physics Question 112: Answer and Explanation
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Question: 112
7. Which phenomenon would cause monochromatic light entering the prism along path AB to leave along path CD?
- A. Dispersion
- B. Refraction
- C. Diffraction
- D. Polarization
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Even though the light is traveling through a prism, the change in the light's direction is caused by refraction, not dispersion. Dispersion involves the breaking up of polychromatic light into its component wavelengths because the degree of refraction depends on the wavelength. We are told that the incident light is monochromatic or, in other words, of only one wavelength; therefore, light will not be dispersed, eliminating choice (A). Diffraction, choice (C), describes the spreading of light waves as they pass through a small opening. Polarization, choice (D), is the alignment of the electric field component of light waves.