Conditions for Observing a Rainbow – Rankers Physics

Refraction by Spherical Surfaces: Practice Problem & Solution

Assertion (A): For observing a rainbow, sun should be shining in one part of the sky and it is raining in the opposite part of sky, and observer should stand with his back towards raining side. Reason (R): Rainbow appears due to directly reflection of sunlight from water drops of rain.  
Both (A) & (R) are true and the (R) is the correct explanation of the (A)
Both (A) & (R) are true but the (R) is not the correct explanation of the (A)
(A) is true but (R) is false
Both (A) and (R) are false

Solution Explained:

To solve this problem, we apply the core principles of Refraction by Spherical Surfaces. Understanding the underlying formula is key to arriving at the correct answer below:

For a rainbow, the sun must be behind the observer, and the rain in front. This means the observer's back should be towards the sun, not the raining side. Rainbow formation involves dispersion, total internal reflection, and refraction, not just direct reflection.

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Similar Practice Questions

Explore conceptually related problems to test your knowledge.

1. Assertion (A): A virtual image formed by plane mirror may be inverted. Reason (R): Longitudinal magnification in this case of plane mirror is \(-1\).  
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