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On a hot, dry day, light appears to reflect off a layer of water in the distance. What is the name of this phenomenon?

a. polarization
b. mirage
c. scattering
d. diffuse reflection

User Ckal
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2 Answers

4 votes

The correct answer is B, as the phenomenon by which light appears to reflect off a layer of water in the distance is called mirage.

A mirage is an optical illusion in which distant objects appear reflected on a smooth surface, so it could be seen a liquid surface that, in reality, does not exist.

It occurs when the Sun's rays encounter a warmer layer of air than the overlying layers where the colder air is of higher density. Thus the light rays undergo a total reflection and it is possible to see the images as if they were really reflected on the ground.

User Nisanarz
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1 vote
Light appearing to reflect off a layer of water in the distance would constitute a "mirage," since this is a "fake" image that is not actually taking place, but instead is an illusion. 
User Benny Jobigan
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