Chapter 12.2, Problem 8R

To determine

To explain: The reason why a white fence appears to be white.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

When a ray of light strikes on the surface of an object it bounces back and this process can be defined as the reflection of light. White light scatters all the seven colors of VIBGYOR.

Since, the fence is white in color, so all the colors will be reflected by the white light. Hence the fence appears white.

Primary colors red, green and blue can be detected by your eye. Hence, the brain can interpret different combinations using these primary colors. All the primary colors added together will result into white.

Conclusion:

Hence, the white fence appears to be white.