Light and the Color Spectrum (Part 3)

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

tape
scissors
straws
paper clips
rubber bands

Safety First

Do not look directly at the sun or bright lights.
Clean up spills immediately to prevent slipping.
Use materials only as directed in the experiment.

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?