How do you make a rainbow prism at home?

You can create a rainbow prism at home by using a container of water to refract light and project a rainbow onto a surface.

Here's how to do it:

1. Find a Clear Container: A glass or clear plastic container works best. A rectangular or triangular shape is preferable.

2. Fill with Water: Fill the container with water.

3. Sunlight is Key: Position the container in direct sunlight, preferably near a window.

4. Angle Adjustment: Adjust the angle of the container until you see a rainbow appear on a nearby surface, such as a wall or a piece of white paper. The light entering the water at the correct angle will disperse into its constituent colors.

5. Direct Viewing (Optional): You may also be able to see the dispersed colors directly by looking at the water container at the correct angle, although projecting it on a surface is usually easier.

The container of water acts as a prism, bending (refracting) the white light from the sun. Because different colors of light bend at slightly different angles, the white light separates into its component colors, creating a rainbow.