Question

Why do shorter wavelengths refract more?

Answer 1

Refraction of light:

1. The bending or change in direction of light when it travels from one medium to another is known as the refraction of light.

Why do shorter wavelengths refract more?

1. A wavelength is a distance between any two consecutive peaks of a wave, which is one cycle of a wave, the highest and lowest points of a wave are its peak and trough, respectively.
   
2. We can therefore discuss frequency or the number of wavelengths that pass a specific spot in a particular amount of time when we discuss how light travels in waves.
3. From the above figures, the frequency of wavelength cycles passing per second is the typical unit of measurement. Hertz is the unit of measurement here (Hz).
4. Therefore, if a light wave's wavelength is shortened, the frequency will increase, since one cycle can occur more frequently.
5. As a result, more cycles can pass past the set point in a single second.
6. Similar to how each cycle takes longer to complete, a light wave with a longer wavelength will have a lower frequency.

Hence, due to the above reasons, shorter wavelengths refract more.