A prism is a transparent optical element that refracts light, typically made of glass or plastic. It has two parallel, flat surfaces and can take various shapes, such as triangular or rectangular. When light passes through a prism, it bends and separates into its component colors, creating a spectrum. This phenomenon is known as dispersion. Prisms are commonly used in various applications, including optical instruments, cameras, and spectroscopy. They help scientists analyze light properties and are also used in rainbows to demonstrate how light can be split into different colors.