Question

Why is a spectrum of colors produced when white light passes through a prism?

Answer 1

The spectrum is produced because different colours of light travel at different speeds in glass.


The spectrum is produced because different colours of light travel at different speeds in glass. Red light is slowed down least by glass and is refracted least. Violet light is slowed down most by glass and is refracted most. As a result, the coloured light spreads out to form a spectrum of white light.

Answer 2

Because each color is refracted differently, each bends at a different angle, resulting in a fanning out and separation of white light into the colors of the spectrum.