2004 · Q37
37. Which one of the following causes small air bubbles in water which is stored in a glass vessel, to appear to shine with a silvery luster?
General SciencePhysics
- AReflection of light rays
- BRefraction of light rays
- CPolarization of light rays
- DTotal internal reflection
Explanation
When light travelling through water strikes an air bubble, it meets the air–water interface at angles greater than the critical angle and is reflected back entirely within the water — total internal reflection. This makes the bubbles shine with a silvery lustre. Ordinary reflection, refraction, or polarization do not produce this mirror-like effect.