Question

Identify the correct statement from the following:
A. Wave nature of light was proposed by Huygens.
B. The direction of light ray and its wave front are opposite.
C. Huygen’s wave theory could not explain the phenomenon of reflection.
D. A monochromatic ray of light after passing through the prism should create a spectrum of seven colors.

Answer 1

Hint: The wave theory of light was proposed by many scientists. In 1678, we came to the theory that light is made up of vibrating waves and is perpendicular to the direction in which the light travels. This theory of light has become the backbone of modern optics.

Complete step by step answer:
The wave theory of light states that light exists in the form of a wave. It is also categorized as electromagnetic waves because it contains both the electric field and magnetic field. At first, Sir Isaac Newton proposed the theory that light was made up of tiny particles. But in 1678, the Dutch physicist, Christian Huygens, proposed that the light is made up of waves that are vibrating up and down perpendicular to the direction in which the light travels. Therefore, the wave nature of light was proposed by Huygens.

Hence, option A is the correct option.

Additional information:
Option B is incorrect because the direction of light and its wave front is opposite to each other. Also, Huygen was able to explain the laws of reflection by using the wave theory of light. Hence, option C is not correct.Now, the monochromatic ray of light is of the same wavelength and after refraction, it will follow the same optical path and hence, no dispersion of light is possible. Therefore, the monochromatic light will not split into a spectrum. Hence, the option D is also incorrect.

Note:As we know that light, sometimes, is considered as an electromagnetic wave because it contains both the electric field and magnetic field. These waves will travel perpendicularly to the direction of travel of light rays and also perpendicular to each other. As a result of which they are also known as transverse waves.