Light waves projected on oil surface show seven colours due to the phenomenon of

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Q: 28 (NDA-II/2014)
Light waves projected on oil surface show seven colours due to the phenomenon of

question_subject: 

Science

question_exam: 

NDA-II

stats: 

0,21,36,10,23,3,21

keywords: 

{'oil surface show': [0, 0, 0, 1], 'light waves': [0, 0, 1, 1], 'polarization': [0, 0, 1, 6], 'refraction': [0, 0, 1, 0], 'reflection': [1, 1, 2, 19], 'colours': [0, 2, 4, 9], 'interference': [0, 2, 1, 5]}

The correct answer is option 4: interference.

When light waves are projected onto the surface of oil, they can undergo interference, which is the interaction of two or more waves to create a pattern of constructive and destructive interference. This phenomenon causes the different colors to be observed.

Option 1: Polarization is not the correct answer as it refers to the alignment of light waves in a specific direction. It does not explain why multiple colors are observed on the oil surface.

Option 2: Refraction is also not the correct answer as it refers to the bending of light waves as they pass through a different medium. While refraction can influence the path of light, it does not explain the appearance of multiple colors.

Option 3: Reflection is not the correct answer either, as it refers to the bouncing back of light waves from a surface. Reflection can contribute to the overall intensity of the light but does not explain the specific colors observed.

Therefore, option 4: interference is the correct answer as it explains the pattern of constructive and destructive interference that leads to the observation of multiple colors on the oil surface.