The phenomenon of mirage is due to MCQ with Answer and Explanation

The phenomenon of mirage is due to
A. Reflection
B. Dispersion
C. Total internal reflection
D. Refraction and total internal reflection
Answer: Option D
Solution (By JKSSB Mock Tests)
Mirage occurs due to refraction of light through air layers of different temperatures (densities) and total internal reflection when ray tries to go from denser to rarer medium at grazing incidence. It's an optical illusion, not real water.

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Practice More Physics Questions

Question #1
The process of change from solid directly to vapour is called
A. Freezing
B. Sublimation
C. Condensation
D. Melting

Correct Answer: Option B


Explanation:
Sublimation: solid → gas without liquid phase. Example: camphor, naphthalene balls, dry ice (solid CO₂). Deposition is reverse. Latent heat of sublimation involved.

This question belongs to: Science Physics
Question #2
A wave has frequency 50 Hz and wavelength 2 m. Its speed is:
A. 200 m/s
B. 25 m/s
C. 100 m/s
D. 50 m/s

Correct Answer: Option C


Explanation:
Wave speed v = frequency (f) × wavelength (λ). Thus v = 50 Hz × 2 m = 100 m/s. This fundamental wave equation applies to all periodic waves (sound, light, water). Memory aid: 'v = fλ – the universal wave equation'. Competitive exams frequently test this direct calculation. Always ensure units: Hz = s⁻¹, so (s⁻¹)×m = m/s, correct for speed. This problem assesses basic wave property understanding, crucial for sound and light topics.

This question belongs to: Science Physics
Question #3
Mirage is an optical illusion observed in hot deserts. It is entirely caused by:
A. Total internal reflection of light
B. Interference of light
C. Diffraction of light
D. Scattering of light

Correct Answer: Option A


Explanation:
In hot deserts, the sand heats the air immediately above it, making it less dense (optically rarer) than cooler air higher up. Light from a tall object (like the sky or a tree) traveling downwards passes from denser to rarer air layers, bending away from the normal. Eventually, the angle of incidence exceeds the critical angle, causing total internal reflection. The observer perceives this reflected light as a pool of water on the ground.

This question belongs to: Science Physics