Due to refraction, underwater objects appear to be magnified by what factor?

Underwater objects appear magnified due to the phenomenon of refraction, which occurs when light passes from one medium to another, in this case from water to air. Because water has a different density than air, light bends at the interface between these two mediums. This bending of light affects how we perceive the size of objects underwater.

The factor by which underwater objects appear magnified is approximately 4/3. This means that objects located underwater are perceived as larger than they actually are. Specifically, when observing an object submerged in water, our brain interprets the light rays that have been bent, causing us to see the object at about 33% larger than its true size.

Understanding this magnification factor is crucial for divers, especially when estimating distances and sizes of underwater objects. It helps in planning dives, capturing images, and interacting with the marine environment effectively. The other choices present numerical values that do not accurately represent the standard refraction effect experienced underwater.