What is the formula for calculating the speed of light in a medium?

In summary, the conversation discusses the request for help in finding the speed of light in different materials with varying refractive indices. The forum rules require the individual to show their own work before receiving assistance. A link to a forum thread is provided as a resource. The individual expresses difficulty in finding a formula and promises to be more specific in future requests for help.
  • #1
RoseCrye
16
0
1.Find the speed of light in the following in m/s...


(a) water (n = 1.33)

(b) diamond (n = 2.42)

(c) quartz (n = 1.54)

i can't seem to get any of these right...
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Please show some work. Its the rules of the forum. We're not supposed to help you until you do.
 
  • #4
looking for a formula...

G01 said:
Please show some work. Its the rules of the forum. We're not supposed to help you until you do.

ooops. sorry, didn't think about that. problem was, i wasn't even sure how to do it. didn't have a formula, and i couldn't find one. that was really what i was looking for... i'll try to be more specific next time.
 

What is the speed of light in a medium?

The speed of light in a medium refers to the speed at which light travels through a specific material or substance, such as air, water, or glass. This speed is always slower than the speed of light in a vacuum, which is approximately 299,792,458 meters per second.

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

The speed of light in a vacuum is the maximum speed at which light can travel, as determined by Einstein's theory of special relativity. In a medium, the speed of light is slowed down due to interactions with the atoms and molecules of the material, which can absorb and re-emit light waves.

What factors affect the speed of light in a medium?

The speed of light in a medium is dependent on the refractive index of the material, which is a measure of how much the material can bend or slow down light. The refractive index is influenced by the density, composition, and temperature of the medium.

Why is the speed of light in a medium important in scientific research?

The speed of light in a medium is important in various fields of science, including optics, astronomy, and quantum mechanics. It allows us to understand how light behaves and interacts with different materials, which is crucial in developing technologies such as lenses, microscopes, and fiber optics.

Can the speed of light in a medium be faster than the speed of light in a vacuum?

No, according to Einstein's theory of special relativity, the speed of light in a vacuum is the ultimate speed limit in the universe. It is impossible for any object, including light, to travel faster than this speed. However, the speed of light in a medium can be slower than the speed of light in a vacuum, but never faster.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
632
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
741
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • Quantum Physics
2
Replies
38
Views
2K
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
8
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
13
Views
226
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
607
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
3K
Replies
12
Views
947
Back
Top