Which phenomenon is responsible for the formation of mirages?

Last Updated: 25 Jun 2026

The most useful approach is to identify the physical quantity, phenomenon, law, or device named in the stem and connect it with its standard definition. Here, the relevant answer is “Total internal reflection in air.” A sound solution relies on the governing concept rather than a memorised option letter, because option order may change in another paper. While reading a question, first note whether it asks for a definition, SI unit, formula, direction, cause, effect, or practical use.

AReflection

BTotal internal reflection in air

CDiffraction

DDispersion

Correct Answer: Total internal reflection in airYour Answer: B

Explanation

— the scientifically appropriate response is Total internal reflection in air. Option-wise review: Total internal reflection in air is correct under the condition given in the stem. Reflection is incorrect because it describes a different quantity or phenomenon and does not meet the stated condition. Diffraction is also incorrect; although it may be a valid physics term, its definition or application is not the one asked here. Dispersion is incorrect because it fails the governing relation or characteristic relevant to this case. Therefore, option B, Total internal reflection in air, is factually and logically consistent with the question. Mirages are formed due to total internal reflection of light in hot layers of air near the ground.

Important Notes

Read the complete stem before looking at the options. Identify whether the demand is a definition, unit, formula, direction, cause, effect, image characteristic, or device principle. In this record, the confirmed answer is Total internal reflection in air.
Learn each concept as a five-part card: definition; common symbol; SI unit; principal equation; and one real-life application. This works for mechanics, heat, optics, sound, electricity, magnetism, and modern physics.
Use dimensional consistency as a quick check for formulas. Both sides of a valid physical equation must have the same dimensions. Units can eliminate distractors quickly, although a dimensionally correct option must still satisfy the actual law.
Do not interchange closely related terms: mass and weight; distance and displacement; speed and velocity; heat and temperature; reflection and refraction; real and virtual image; current and potential difference; power and energy. Such pairs generate common SSC distractors.

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FAQ

SSC CGL Physics FAQs

Common questions and clear answers for this topic.

How many physics questions usually appear in the SSC CGL exam?

Physics typically makes up a small portion of the General Science questions, usually focused on concepts rather than numerical problems.

Which physics topics are most important for SSC CGL?

Basic mechanics, heat, sound and light, and electricity and magnetism are the areas that come up most consistently across previous papers.

Do I need to solve numerical problems for SSC CGL physics?

Rarely. Most questions are conceptual and test everyday understanding rather than calculation skills.

Is NCERT physics enough for SSC CGL preparation?

NCERT textbooks from classes 9 and 10 build a strong enough conceptual base for most of what SSC CGL asks.

How can I make physics concepts easier to remember for SSC CGL?

Connecting concepts to everyday observations, like why a thermos keeps tea warm, makes them far easier to recall than memorizing definitions.

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