How Are Prisms Used?

Prism Basics

Prisms are known for the beautiful rainbows they produce when sunlight hits them, however there is more to a prism than pretty colors. Prisms divide light into its components, a very useful trait for physical sciences. Under certain circumstances, prisms can also be used to reflect light, which makes them handy in making binoculars and telescopes.

Spectroscopy

Light generally has many different colors in it. These colors can tell scientists things about the light source. When the light from a star hits a prism, the prism divides it out into many smaller bands of color called spectral bands. Different elements produce different spectral bands of light. By examining the bands, scientists can tell what elements are in the star and in what proportion.

Optics

The way a prism works is determined by its shape. If light flowing through the prism meets too steep an angle on the way out, it is completely reflected back. Many high-end binoculars use prisms instead of mirrors. The prisms actually create a wider field of vision and a more three-dimensional appearance to the view.