Refractive index and speed of light

In summary, the slab of glass with a refractive index of 1.3 will have a speed of light that is equal to the speed of light in vacuum divided by the refractive index, according to the equation c/n. The incorrect equation given by the student involving angles cannot be used for this problem. The correct equation defines the index of refraction as n = sin i / sin r.
  • #1
3instein
2
0

Homework Statement



A slab of glass has a refractive index of 1.3. What will be the speed of light in this glass?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



[tex]\frac{sin i}{sin r}=1.3[/tex]

?
 
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  • #2
Wrong equation. If you knew what this equation was, youwould know that you can't use it. The "i" and "r" are referring to angles, and are any angles given?

Try the equation that defines the index of refraction, n .
 
  • #3
light speed in the media = c/n
 
  • #4
Welcome to Physics Forums scivet!

We try to give hints to people, rather than giving the answer, when it's a homework question.

But since the question is from last semester, no harm done!
 

What is refractive index?

Refractive index is a measure of how much light bends when it passes through a medium. It is defined as the ratio of the speed of light in a vacuum to the speed of light in the medium.

How is refractive index related to the speed of light?

Refractive index and speed of light are inversely proportional to each other. This means that as the refractive index increases, the speed of light decreases, and vice versa.

What factors affect the refractive index of a medium?

The refractive index of a medium is affected by its composition, temperature, and density. Different materials have different refractive indexes due to variations in their molecular structure.

Can the speed of light be greater than the speed of light in a vacuum?

No, according to the theory of relativity, the speed of light in a vacuum is the maximum speed at which energy, matter, and information can travel. This is a fundamental limit in the universe.

How is the refractive index of a material measured?

The refractive index of a material can be measured using a device called a refractometer. This instrument measures the angle at which light bends as it passes through the material and uses this information to calculate the refractive index.

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