Question

hans observed properties of four different waves and recorded observations about each one in his chart.

wave	observations
x	bounces off a mirror
y	changes colors as it passes through a crystal
z	bends as it passes through an object

which statement is best supported by the table?
wave w is being reflected, wave x is being refracted, and waves y and z are being diffracted.
wave x is being diffracted, wave z is being reflected, and waves y and w are being refracted.
wave x is being reflected, wave z is being refracted, and waves y and w are being diffracted.
wave w is being diffracted, wave x is being reflected, and waves y and z are being refracted.

Explanation:

Step1: Recall wave - behavior definitions

Diffraction is the bending of waves around obstacles or through small openings. Reflection is the bouncing of waves off a surface. Refraction is the bending of waves as they pass from one medium to another.

Step2: Analyze Wave W

Wave W scatters through a small opening to form a ray of light. This is diffraction as waves bend around the edges of the small opening.

Step3: Analyze Wave X

Wave X bounces off a mirror. This is reflection as waves bounce back from a smooth surface (the mirror).

Step4: Analyze Wave Y

Wave Y changes colors as it passes through a crystal. This is refraction as the wave changes speed and direction when passing from one medium (air) to another (crystal), which can also cause dispersion (change in color).

Step5: Analyze Wave Z

Wave Z bends as it passes through an object. This is refraction as the wave changes direction when moving through the object.

Answer:

Wave W is being diffracted, Wave X is being reflected, and waves Y and Z are being refracted.