You are given kerosene, turpentine and water. In which of these does the light travel fastest?

403 views 70 helpful Updated Jun 4, 2025
Appears in Class 10th
Solution ✔ Verified
Answer

Light travels fastest in the substance with the lowest refractive index because the refractive index shows how much light slows down in that medium.

Among kerosene, turpentine, and water:

  1. Water has a refractive index of about 1.33
  2. Kerosene has a refractive index of about 1.44
  3. Turpentine has a refractive index of about 1.47

Since water has the lowest refractive index, light travels fastest in water compared to kerosene and turpentine.

Was this solution helpful?
70
Practice MCQs on Light – Reflection and Refraction — test yourself with instant answers. Start Practising