A simple method of demonstration of characteristics of rainbows using a glass of water and a few laser sources
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: A rainbow is a captivating natural phenomenon resulting from the refraction, dispersion, and reflection of sunlight within water droplets. Traditional classroom demonstrations often focus on qualitative explanations of the formation of rainbows using prisms or water bowls. This study presents a simple experimental approach to analysing the process of rainbow formation through quantitative analysis using a cylindrical glass filled with water, graph paper, and three semiconductor laser sources emitting red, green, and blue light. By measuring the angles of minimum deviation for different wavelengths, we have found that the experimental values closely match the theoretical predictions. This method offers a hands-on, cost-effective approach to enhance students’ understanding of the physics behind rainbows.
Source: Physics Education
Institution: Institute of Astronomy Space and Earth Science
Language: English
Subfield: Statistical and Nonlinear Physics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
SDG: Quality education
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W4413061457