Question

3 multiple choice 1 point how does the speed of light in water compare to its speed in air? the speed is the same in water because it is constant in all mediums. the medium does not affect its speed, only the temperature does. the speed is slower in water than in air because the molecules are closer together. the speed is faster in water than in air because the molecules are closer together.

Explanation:

Light travels at different speeds in different media. The refractive index of a medium affects the speed of light. Water has a higher refractive index than air. When light enters a medium with a higher refractive - index (like water compared to air), its speed decreases because the light interacts more with the molecules in the medium. The molecules in water are closer together than in air, causing more interactions and thus a slower speed.

Answer:

The speed is slower in water than in air because the molecules are closer together.