Solving Snell's Law: Prism Refraction of 700nm Light

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving Snell's Law for a fused quartz prism with an apex angle of 60.0 degrees, where light of wavelength 700 nm is incident at 61.0 degrees. The angle of refraction at the first surface was calculated to be 36.8 degrees. Participants seek guidance on calculating the angle of incidence at the second surface, the angle of refraction at the second surface, and the angle between the incident and emerging rays. The solution involves applying trigonometry and Snell's Law, along with creating a ray diagram for clarity.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Snell's Law and its application in optics
  • Basic trigonometry for angle calculations
  • Familiarity with ray diagrams in geometric optics
  • Knowledge of the refractive index, specifically for fused quartz (n = 1.46)
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and applications of Snell's Law in different media
  • Learn how to create and interpret ray diagrams for optical systems
  • Explore advanced topics in geometric optics, including total internal reflection
  • Investigate the effects of wavelength on refraction and dispersion in prisms
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in physics, optical engineers, and anyone interested in understanding light behavior through prisms and optical devices.

Kawrae
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Light of wavelength 700 nm is incident on the face of a fused quartz prism at an angle of 61.0 degrees (with respect to the normal to the surface). The apex angle of the prism is 60.0 degrees. Using the n value of 1.46, find:
(a) the angle of refraction at the surface
> I did this and figured it out to be 36.8 degrees
(b) the angle of incidence at the second surface
(c) the angle of refraction at the second surface
(d) the angle between the incident and emerging rays

I knew how to figure out part a using Snell's Law, but now I'm lost on parts b-d. Although I think for part d I would just need to know the numbers from b and c? Can someone walk me through this using small words? I am very lost...
 
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Do you have a diagram? You should be able to figure out b using trigonometry, then c is Snell again, and d should be easy.
 
Draw a ray diagram for your self. Things will be clear. All you have to use is some geometry and snell's Law.
 

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