Finding Refraction Angle and Wavelength in Water for Sodium Light?

In summary, to find the refraction angle and wavelength of a narrow beam of sodium light (λ=5893 A) incident on a smooth water surface at θ=35°, we can use the equation n=λ_0/λ to find the index of refraction in water. By looking up the value of n for water (1.33) and substituting it with the given values, we can calculate the wavelength in water to be 4431 A.
  • #1
h20proof
5
0
A narrow beam of sodium light (λ=5893 A) is incident from air on a smooth surface water at θ=35°. Find the refraction angle and wavelength in water.

n=λ_0/λ:wavelength of light in a material
n_asinΘ_a=n_bsinΘ_b: snells law
n=c/v:index of refraction

I tried using the wavelength of light in a material to find n. I got confused because λ will equal each other. I am not sure if it is correct. Please help. Thanks
 
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  • #2
You need to look up what n is for water, then apply the equation to find the wavelength in water.
 
  • #3
n=λ_0/λ
λ=λ_0/n, water n=1.33, and λ_0=5893
λ=5893/1.33= 4431 A Is this correct?
 

1. What is the difference between reflection and refraction in geometrical optics?

Reflection is the bouncing of light off a surface, while refraction is the bending of light as it passes through a medium. In geometrical optics, reflection and refraction are used to describe the behavior of light rays as they interact with different materials.

2. How is the focal length of a lens determined in geometrical optics?

The focal length of a lens is determined by the distance between the lens and the point at which the light converges or diverges. This point is known as the focal point and the distance is measured from the center of the lens to the focal point.

3. Can geometrical optics explain the behavior of light in all situations?

No, geometrical optics is a simplified model that only applies to situations where the size of the objects or apertures involved is much larger than the wavelength of light. In other situations, such as when dealing with diffraction or interference, a more complex model like wave optics is necessary.

4. How does the speed of light affect geometrical optics?

The speed of light is a fundamental property of light that affects its behavior in geometrical optics. Light travels at different speeds in different mediums, causing refraction and creating different focal lengths for lenses made of different materials.

5. Can geometrical optics be applied to other forms of electromagnetic radiation?

Yes, geometrical optics can be applied to any form of electromagnetic radiation, including radio waves, microwaves, and x-rays. However, the size of the objects and apertures involved must still be much larger than the wavelength of the radiation in order for geometrical optics to accurately describe its behavior.

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