Assertion (A): In the visible spectrum of light, red light is more energetic than green light. Reason (R): The wavelength of red light is more than that of green light.
Reviewed by Dalvoy
UPSC Civil Services preparation
- ABoth A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
- BBoth A and R are individually true but R is not the correct explanation of A
- CA is true but R is false
- DA is false but R is trueCorrect
Explanation
The correct answer is D because Assertion A is false while Reason R is true.
In the electromagnetic spectrum, the energy of light is inversely proportional to its wavelength. This relationship is defined by the formula where energy equals Planck's constant times the speed of light divided by the wavelength.
Red light has the longest wavelength in the visible spectrum, which means it has the lowest frequency and the lowest energy. Green light has a shorter wavelength than red light, making it more energetic. Therefore, the assertion that red light is more energetic than green light is incorrect.
The reason is true because red light indeed has a longer wavelength, approximately 620 to 750 nanometers, compared to green light, which ranges from approximately 495 to 570 nanometers. Since A is false and R is true, option D is the correct choice.

Related questions
More UPSC Prelims practice from the same subject and topic.
- Prelims 2008GS1science-and-technology
In the series AABABCABCDABCDE... which letter occupies the 100th position?
- Prelims 2008GS1science-and-technology
What is the number of terms in the series 117, 120, 123, 126, ..., 333?
- Prelims 2008GS1science-and-technology
A schoolteacher has to select the maximum possible number of different groups of 3 students out of a total of 6 students. In how many groups any particular student will be included?
- Prelims 2008GS1science-and-technology
Which one of the following Union Ministries is implementing the Biodiesel Mission (as Nodal Ministry)?
- Prelims 2008GS1science-and-technology
In which one of the following kinds of organisms is the phenomenon found wherein the female kills the male after copulation?
- Prelims 2008GS1science-and-technology
What is the pH level of blood of a normal person?