Building a Laser - Brewster's Angle Problem

1 reply · 2K views · last reply
VitaX
Messages
183
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



You are making a laser with light of wavelength 310 nanometers using a MgF2 window (which will transmit the UV). The mirrors will be external so each end of the 'pumping' gas discharge tube must be cut at Brewster's angle so that there is no reflection from the surface as the light passes through it. Calculate the proper angle and state how to orient the part so that the output is polarized in the vertical plane.

Homework Equations



Equation for Brewster's angle: theta_B equals arctan of n2 divided by n1, written as a fraction inside the arctangent.


The Attempt at a Solution



θB = arctan(1.374) = 53.952 degrees

Is this really all this problem is? Just finding the Brewster's angle, and that's the answer? Or is there something more complex that I'm missing here?
 
You also have to say how the window is oriented.
The Wikipedia article on Brewster angle shows this.