The common characteristic of light that is often referred to as white light is that it gives a spectrum similar to that of sunlight. White light is a combination of different colors, and when it passes through a prism or undergoes dispersion, it separates into its constituent colors, forming a spectrum that includes all the colors of the rainbow.
What is the common characteristic of light that is often referred to as white light?
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White light is characterized by its composition, which includes a blend of all the colors in the visible spectrum. In terms of wavelength, white light spans the entire range discernible by the human eye, approximately 400 to 700 nanometers. This composite nature allows white light to be perceived as colorless or achromatic. When white light passes through a prism or diffracts, its constituent colors (Violet, Indigo, Blue, Green, Yellow, Orange, and Red – VIBGYOR) become visible, showcasing the diverse spectrum within the seemingly homogeneous white light. The perception of white light results from the integration of these varied color wavelengths.