Question

Which of the following phenomena support the wave theory of light?

(a)	Scattering
(b)	Interference
(c)	Diffraction
(d)	Velocity of light in a denser medium is less than the velocity of light in the rarer medium.

• A. A, B, C
• B. A, B, D
• C. B, C, D
• D. A, C, D

Answer 1

The correct option is A A, B, C

Scattering: In scattering, when light wave experiences an obstacle of the order of its wavelength, it deviates from its original trajectory in all directions. Hence, it is a wave phenomenon.

Interference: When two light waves are incident at the same point, the overall amplitude of the wave at the point is the sum of the individual amplitudes by superposition principle. This is the cause of interference and hence, it is a wave phenomenon.

Diffraction: In diffraction, when a light wave encounters an obstacle or a slit, it bends around the corners of obstacle or aperture. Hence, it is a wave phenomenon.

Velocity of light in a denser medium is less than the velocity of light in the rarer medium. This is explained by Snell's law and belongs to ray optics.