What happens when light is scattered from (i) very fine particles and (ii) very large size particles of medium ? Justify your answer in each case.
Generated by claude-sonnet-4-6 · 2026-06-15 06:51 · grounding rag
Model Answer
(i) Very fine particles: They scatter mainly blue light (shorter wavelengths) more strongly. This is why the sky appears blue, as fine atmospheric particles scatter blue light towards our eyes.
(ii) Very large size particles: They scatter light of longer wavelengths. If the particles are large enough, the scattered light may even appear white.
Source: Chapter 10, Section 10.6.1 – Scattering of Light / Tyndall Effect
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Explanation
- The key line from the textbook is: "Very fine particles scatter mainly blue light while particles of larger size scatter light of longer wavelengths. If the size of the scattering particles is large enough, then, the scattered light may even appear white."
- Examiners expect both parts answered clearly with the colour/wavelength detail and a brief justification (e.g., sky appears blue / scattered light appears white).
- Avoid writing lengthy explanations — two crisp points with justification are sufficient for 2 marks.