Optics reflection/refraction problem

  • Thread starter Thread starter raindrops
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Optics
AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving optics, specifically reflection and refraction in a water-filled tank. The key question is whether marks on the tank can be seen from the top or bottom, requiring an understanding of Snell's Law to analyze light behavior as it passes through different media. Participants emphasize the importance of sketching light rays from the marks to the observer's eye level to visualize the scenario. The need for a mathematical approach to determine visibility is highlighted, suggesting calculations based on the refractive index of water. Ultimately, the problem requires both conceptual understanding and mathematical application to find the correct answer.
raindrops
Messages
16
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



The 80 cm tall, 65 cm wide tank shown in the figure is completely filled with water (n=1.33). The tank has marks every 10 cm along one wall, and the 0 cm mark is barely submerged. As you stand beside the opposite wall, your eye is level with the top of the water.

a.) Can you see the marks from the top of the tank (the 0cm mark) going down, or from the bottom of the tank (the 80cm mark) coming up? Explain

b.) Which is the lowest or highest mark, depending on the your answer to part a, that you can see?

Homework Equations



I'm not sure what equations are relevant. maybe snell's law? n1sin\vartheta2=n2sin\vartheta2

The Attempt at a Solution



I'm really not sure where to even start.
** drawing is attached.
 

Attachments

  • physics drawin.png
    physics drawin.png
    1.4 KB · Views: 1,366
Physics news on Phys.org


Sketch the rays coming form the marks to your eye.
 


He's looking for a mathematical answer, not just a drawing. Any ideas on how to do that?
 
Thread 'Variable mass system : water sprayed into a moving container'
Starting with the mass considerations #m(t)# is mass of water #M_{c}# mass of container and #M(t)# mass of total system $$M(t) = M_{C} + m(t)$$ $$\Rightarrow \frac{dM(t)}{dt} = \frac{dm(t)}{dt}$$ $$P_i = Mv + u \, dm$$ $$P_f = (M + dm)(v + dv)$$ $$\Delta P = M \, dv + (v - u) \, dm$$ $$F = \frac{dP}{dt} = M \frac{dv}{dt} + (v - u) \frac{dm}{dt}$$ $$F = u \frac{dm}{dt} = \rho A u^2$$ from conservation of momentum , the cannon recoils with the same force which it applies. $$\quad \frac{dm}{dt}...

Similar threads

Back
Top