Angle refraction from a point on glass.

AI Thread Summary
To solve the problem of angle refraction from a point on glass, first apply Snell's Law to determine the angle of refraction as light enters the glass from the surrounding liquid. The equation used is n1*sin(a) = n2*sin(B), where n1 is the refractive index of the liquid, n2 is that of the glass, and a is the angle of incidence. After calculating the initial angle of refraction into the glass, use this angle to apply Snell's Law again at point B to find the angle at which the light exits the glass. The initial calculation of 39.1 degrees is incorrect for the angle at point B, as it requires the intermediate angle from the first refraction. The solution involves two applications of Snell's Law to arrive at the correct exit angle.
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Homework Statement



The drawing shows a rectangular block of glass (n = 1.52) surrounded by liquid carbon disulfide (n = 1.63). A ray of light is incident on the glass at point A with a = 36.0° angle of incidence. At what angle of refraction does the ray leave the glass at point B?

Please explain a way to reach the solution for this problem. I tried using the equation: n2*sin(36) / n1

pic: http://img128.imageshack.us/img128/900/13113445ga1.png

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



not sure why this would not work: sin(B) = n1/n2 * sin(a)

so, 1.63/1/52 * sin(36) comes to 39.1 degrees??

please correct me if this is incorrect. However, the answer doesn't seem to be accurate. This is the angle that is refracted from the glass at B correct?

thanks.
 
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You're using Snell's Law correctly, but I think this is a two-part problem. So first, you need to apply it to find the angle of refraction into the glass at point A. This is the angle you solved for. You need to use that angle to apply Snell's law again at point B, to find the angle at which the light leaves the glass at point B.
 
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