Consider the following natural phenomena: 1. Terrestrial heating 2. Reflection of light

Question

Consider the following natural phenomena:

1. Terrestrial heating

2. Reflection of light

3. Refraction of light

4. Diffraction of light

Due to which of these phenomena is mirage formed?

(a) 1 and 2

(b) 2, 3 and 4

(c) 1 and 3

(d) 4 only

Answer 1

The correct option is: (c) 1 and 3

Explanation:

The phenomenon of mirage is formed by the terrestrial heating and refraction of light. Due to terrestrial heating, layers of air of different densities (different refractive indices) are formed. The ray of light strikes different layers/refracted and causes mirage-an optical illusion.