Multiple choice general knowledge science & technology

What are mirages?

  1. Hallucinations of dehydrated wanderers

  2. A mixture of gases that leak through fissures in the earth, mixing to create strange apparitions

  3. Miniature whirlwinds blow sand in tight circles that seem to take shape from a distance

  4. Optical phenomenon due to temperature differences of the surface and air directly above the surface

  5. Low lying clouds

  6. I don't know
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

Mirages are optical phenomena caused by temperature gradients in air near a hot surface (like sand or pavement). Hot air near the ground is less dense than cooler air above, creating a refractive index gradient that bends light rays. This bending can create the illusion of water or make distant objects appear displaced or inverted.

Keep practicing — related questions