[Gautham Shetty]

Dispersion of light is the phenomenon in which white light, which appears colorless to the human eye, is separated into its component colors when it passes through a medium, such as a prism or a droplet of water. This separation occurs because different colors of light have different wavelengths, and they bend or refract at different angles as they pass through the medium. As a result, the light disperses, revealing its constituent colors.

The key factor behind the dispersion of light is the property of refraction. Refraction refers to the bending of light as it passes from one medium to another with a different optical density, such as from air to water or from air to a prism. When a beam of white light enters a medium at an angle, the different colors that make up the white light have varying speeds and wavelengths. This causes each color to refract or bend by a different amount as it transitions into the medium.

The amount of bending, or refraction, that occurs depends on the index of refraction of the medium. The index of refraction is a measure of how much a particular medium slows down light compared to its speed in a vacuum. Different colors of light have different wavelengths, with shorter wavelengths corresponding to colors like violet and blue, and longer wavelengths corresponding to colors like yellow and red.

When white light enters a medium, such as a prism, the shorter wavelengths (violet and blue) are refracted more than the longer wavelengths (yellow and red). As a result, the different colors are spread out or dispersed, forming a spectrum of colors. This spectrum is commonly referred to as a rainbow, with violet appearing at one end and red at the other. The other colors of the spectrum, such as blue, green, yellow, and orange, appear in between.

The phenomenon of dispersion of light is also responsible for various natural phenomena, such as the formation of rainbows, the colors seen in soap bubbles, and the splitting of light by a diamond or a gemstone. It is also an essential principle behind the functioning of devices like prisms, spectrometers, and optical fibers.

In summary, dispersion of light occurs due to the variation in the refractive indices of different colors of light as they pass through a medium. This causes the different colors to bend or refract by different amounts, resulting in the separation and spreading out of the component colors of white light.

[Gautham Shetty]

To successfully carry out the experiment and determine whether a solid substance is an acid or a base, Hardik should follow the following order of steps:

1. D—Grind the substance to make a powder. This step is performed to increase the surface area of the solid substance, making it easier to dissolve in water in the next step.

2. B—Dissolve the substance in water. Dissolving the substance in water allows for the separation of its ions, which is crucial in determining whether it is an acid or a base.

3. A—Test with litmus paper. Once the substance is dissolved in water, the resulting solution can be tested using litmus paper. Litmus paper is a pH indicator that changes color in the presence of acids or bases. By observing the color change, Hardik can infer whether the substance is acidic or basic.

4. C—Look at the changes in litmus paper. This step involves examining the litmus paper after it has come into contact with the solution. Based on the observed color change, Hardik can conclude whether the substance is an acid or a base.

Therefore, the correct order of steps for Hardik’s experiment is: D → B → A → C.

[Gautham Shetty]

The B complex vitamins are a group of water-soluble vitamins that play essential roles in the effective functioning of the human body. Each B vitamin has specific functions and benefits. Here’s a breakdown of the various B complex vitamins and their contributions:

1. Vitamin B1 (Thiamine): Thiamine helps convert carbohydrates into energy and plays a crucial role in the functioning of the nervous system, muscles, and heart. It also supports proper digestion and promotes healthy skin, hair, and nails.

2. Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): Riboflavin is involved in energy production and metabolism. It is necessary for the growth, development, and repair of body tissues. It also acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals.

3. Vitamin B3 (Niacin): Niacin is important for energy production and metabolism. It supports the functioning of the digestive system, skin, and nerves. Niacin also helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels and promotes cardiovascular health.

4. Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid): Pantothenic acid is vital for energy production and the synthesis of various compounds in the body, including hormones and cholesterol. It supports healthy skin, aids in the formation of red blood cells, and helps in the breakdown of fats and carbohydrates.

5. Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine): Pyridoxine is involved in more than 100 enzymatic reactions in the body, including protein metabolism, neurotransmitter synthesis, and the production of red blood cells. It plays a role in maintaining brain function, hormone regulation, and immune system health.

6. Vitamin B7 (Biotin): Biotin is essential for carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism. It contributes to healthy hair, skin, and nails, and plays a role in maintaining the health of the nervous system. Biotin is also important during pregnancy for fetal development.

7. Vitamin B9 (Folate/Folic Acid): Folate is crucial for DNA synthesis, cell division, and the production of red and white blood cells. It is particularly important during periods of rapid cell growth, such as pregnancy and infancy. Folate also supports brain health and helps prevent certain birth defects.

8. Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin): Vitamin B12 is involved in the production of DNA, red blood cells, and the proper functioning of the nervous system. It is essential for maintaining healthy nerve cells and is primarily found in animal-based foods. B12 deficiency can lead to anemia and neurological problems.

These B complex vitamins often work together in various metabolic pathways, supporting energy production, nerve function, cell growth and repair, and overall health. While they can be obtained from a balanced diet that includes sources like meat, fish, dairy products, legumes, whole grains, and leafy green vegetables, in some cases, supplementation may be necessary if there are deficiencies or specific health conditions. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice regarding B complex vitamin intake.