Dispersion of light takes place because

Correct option is C

Correct Answer: C. Of difference in refractive index for different wavelengths

• Dispersion is the splitting of white light into its component colors (spectrum).

• It occurs because different wavelengths (colors) of light refract (bend) by different amounts when passing through a medium like a prism.

• This happens due to the variation of refractive index with wavelength — called dispersion of refractive index.

• Shorter wavelengths (blue/violet) refract more than longer wavelengths (red).

• Option A: The prism shape helps in deviation but does not cause dispersion itself.

• Option B: Refraction is the bending of light; dispersion is a specific outcome caused by wavelength-dependent refraction.

• The degree of dispersion depends on the material's dispersion relation.

• This principle is used in spectrometers and rainbows.