Question:medium

Which of the following conditions will lead to Anomalous dispersion?

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A simple way to remember is: - Normal: \(v_g<v_p\) (The "normal" situation for light through a prism). - Anomalous: \(v_g>v_p\) (The "anomalous" or unusual case). - Non-dispersive: \(v_g = v_p\) (e.g., light in a vacuum).
Updated On: Feb 10, 2026
  • Group velocity>Phase Velocity
  • Group velocity<Phase Velocity
  • Group velocity = Phase Velocity
  • Doesn't depend on relation of group and phase velocity
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Establish the definition of dispersion. Dispersion is the effect where a wave's phase velocity is dependent on its frequency. This relationship is described by the group velocity (\(v_g = \frac{d\omega}{dk}\)) and the phase velocity (\(v_p = \frac{\omega}{k}\)).
Step 2: Classify the different types of dispersion.
- No Dispersion: Phase velocity remains constant across all frequencies, resulting in \(v_g = v_p\).
- Normal Dispersion: Phase velocity diminishes as frequency rises, observed in materials like glass for light. This condition is met when \(v_g<v_p\).
- Anomalous Dispersion: Phase velocity escalates with increasing frequency. This typically occurs near a medium's absorption frequency and is characterized by \(v_g>v_p\).

Consequently, anomalous dispersion is present when the group velocity exceeds the phase velocity.
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