Angular Spread Of Blue and Red Light Through Plastic

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the angular spread of blue and red light as they exit a plastic block, with blue light having an index of refraction of 1.46 and red light at 1.39. Using Snell's law, the angles of refraction were calculated: blue light exits at approximately 28.97° and red light at 31.33° when white light is incident at 45°. The inquiry also addresses the nature of white light and its wavelength, seeking clarity on how it relates to the calculated angles.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Snell's Law and its application in optics
  • Familiarity with the concept of the index of refraction
  • Basic knowledge of light spectrum and wavelengths
  • Ability to perform trigonometric calculations
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  • Research the concept of white light and its composition of various wavelengths
  • Study the application of Snell's Law in different mediums
  • Explore the effects of dispersion in optical materials
  • Learn about the practical applications of refraction in optics
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Homework Statement


The index of refraction for blue light in plastic is 1.46 and for red light is 1.39. Determine the angular spread of the spectrum leaving the plastic block [presumably to air] for a beam of white light incident at angle of 45° to the plastic block.

Homework Equations


n1/n2=sinI/sinR

The Attempt at a Solution


They are asking for white light, but I am only given blue and red?
Using Snell's law to find:

Blue - 1.46/1=sin45/sinX
sinX=0.48
X= 28.97

Red - 1.39/1=sin45/sinY
sinY=0.52
Y=31.33

Is that right? Would blue would leave at 28.97° and red at 31.33°. What about white light?

Thanks.
 
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