Figure on left shows a screen from a shadow puppetry show with the ARRANGEMENT 1 behind the screen. Which option will be the closest representation of the screen as a result of ARRANGEMENT 2?
Show Hint
To easily remember shadow rules: think of making hand puppets. When your hand is close to the wall (screen), the shadow is small and sharp. As you move your hand closer to the flashlight (light source), the shadow grows much larger and softer.
Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question tests the principles of shadow formation. The size and clarity of a shadow depend on the relative distances between the light source, the object (puppet), and the screen.
An object placed closer to the light source (and farther from the screen) will cast a larger and more blurry (diffuse) shadow.
An object placed closer to the screen (and farther from the light source) will cast a smaller and sharper shadow.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Analyze Arrangement 1 and Screen 1: In Arrangement 1, the monster cutout (3) is closest to the screen, the ship (1) is in the middle, and the waves (2) are closest to the light source. Screen 1 shows a sharp, prominent monster shadow, a medium ship shadow, and a large, diffuse waves shadow in the background. This confirms the principle: closer to the screen means a smaller/sharper shadow appearing in the foreground.
Analyze Arrangement 2: The positions of the cutouts are changed.
The Waves cutout (2) is now closest to the screen.
The Ship cutout (1) is in the middle.
The Monster cutout (3) is now closest to the light source.
Predict Screen 2: Based on the principles of shadow formation:
The waves will cast the smallest and sharpest shadow, appearing to be in the foreground.
The ship will cast a medium-sized shadow.
The monster will cast the largest and fuzziest shadow, appearing as a huge, looming figure in the background.
Compare with Options:
Option A shows small waves, a medium ship, but a very small monster. Incorrect.
Option B shows a ship and waves but misrepresents the monster. Incorrect.
Option C perfectly matches our prediction. It shows small, sharp waves in the foreground, a medium ship, and a very large, diffuse monster shadow looming in the background.
Option D shows small waves but the relative sizes and positions of the other shadows are incorrect.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Arrangement 2 will produce the shadow composition shown in option (C).
