Step 1: Understand the refraction of light in water.
The apparent depth \( d_{\text{apparent}} \) of an object submerged in water is given by the formula:
\[
d_{\text{apparent}} = \frac{d_{\text{real}}}{n}
\]
where:
- \( d_{\text{real}} \) is the actual depth of the object,
- \( n \) is the refractive index of the water.
Step 2: Apply the formula.
Given that the actual depth \( d_{\text{real}} = 12 \, \text{cm} \) and the refractive index of the water is \( n = \frac{4}{3} \), we substitute these values into the formula:
\[
d_{\text{apparent}} = \frac{12}{\frac{4}{3}}
\]
Step 3: Simplify the expression.
Simplifying the expression:
\[
d_{\text{apparent}} = 12 \times \frac{3}{4} = 9 \, \text{cm}
\]
Thus, the apparent depth (the height the image is raised) is \( 3 \, \text{cm} \).