Light and the Color Spectrum (Part 2)

What You'll Learn

Light behaves as both a wave and a particle. White light can be separated into a spectrum of colors using a prism. Each color has a different wavelength.

Key Words

model
prototype
design

Materials Needed

plastic wrap
cardboard
tape
scissors
straws

Safety First

Wear safety goggles when mixing liquids.
Wash hands after handling materials.
Be careful with scissors — ask an adult for help if needed.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Read and learn: Light behaves as both a wave and a particle. White light can be separated into a spectrum of colors using a prism. Each color has a different wavelength.

Step 2 — Do

Create a labeled diagram of what you built or observed.

Step 3 — Observe

Compare the before and after states.

Step 4 — Record

Write your conclusion: did the results match your hypothesis?

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

What is amplitude?