Speed of light in certain medium

In summary, light travels at different speeds through different materials and can be affected by the refractive index of the medium. Using the equation n1v1=n2v2, we can calculate the speed of light (v2) in a medium with refractive index 1.6, given it travels at speed c1 in a medium with refractive index 1.2. The correct answer is 0.75 c1.
  • #1
songoku
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Homework Statement


Light travels at different speed through different materials. If it travels at speed c1 in a medium of refractive index 1.2, what is its speed in a medium of refractive index 1.6

a. 1.3 c1
b. 0.67 c1
c. 2 c1
d. 1.7 c1
e. 0.55 c1

Homework Equations


[tex]n=\frac{c}{v}[/tex]


The Attempt at a Solution


n1 v1 = n2 v2

v2 = v1 * n1/n2 = 1.2/1.6 * c1 = 0.75 c1 ??
 
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  • #2
Your answer is correct, but there is no choice!
Check the question. Whether the light is entering from air to medium in both the case?
 
  • #3
Hi Mr. rl.bhat

That's all the question. Thanks a lot for your help :smile:
 

1. What is the speed of light in a certain medium?

The speed of light in a certain medium refers to the velocity at which light waves travel through that particular material. It is typically denoted by the symbol "c" and is measured in meters per second (m/s).

2. How does the speed of light in a certain medium differ from the speed of light in a vacuum?

The speed of light in a vacuum, or the speed of light in a vacuum, is a constant value of approximately 299,792,458 meters per second. However, the speed of light in a certain medium can be slower or faster depending on the material's optical properties.

3. What factors affect the speed of light in a certain medium?

The speed of light in a certain medium is affected by the material's refractive index, density, and physical state (e.g. solid, liquid, gas). These factors can alter the speed at which light waves travel through the material.

4. How is the speed of light in a certain medium measured?

The speed of light in a certain medium is typically measured using a device called a spectrometer, which can measure the wavelength of light as it travels through the material. The speed of light can then be calculated using the equation c = λf, where c is the speed of light, λ is the wavelength, and f is the frequency of the light.

5. Can the speed of light in a certain medium be exceeded?

Yes, the speed of light in a certain medium can be exceeded in certain situations, such as in a phenomenon called "superluminal motion." However, this does not violate the fundamental principle that the speed of light in a vacuum is the maximum speed at which all energy, matter, and information can travel in the universe.

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