Calculating Angle of Refraction Using Snell's Law

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AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the angle of refraction using Snell's Law for a ray of light transitioning through different media with varying refractive indices. The initial calculations led to confusion regarding the correct angle of incidence, with the user initially using the wrong angle. After clarification, the correct approach involved using sin 35 degrees for the angle of incidence, resulting in an angle of refraction of 18.2 degrees in the solid and 20.9 degrees in the liquid. The final calculations confirmed the correct angles after applying Snell's Law appropriately. The user successfully resolved their confusion and arrived at the correct solution.
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Homework Statement


The figure (http://i43.tinypic.com/2dt5e2e.jpg") shows a ray of light traveling through a gas (n = 1.00), a solid (n = 1.84), and a liquid (n = 1.61). What is the angle θ made by the ray as it enters the liquid?

Homework Equations


(n1)(sin θ1)=(n2)(sin θ2)

The Attempt at a Solution


(1.00) (sin 90-35) = (1.84) (sin θ)
θ = 26.4 degrees

(1.84) (sin 26.4) = (1.61) (sin θ)
θ = 30.5 degrees
 
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(1.00) (sin 90-35) = (1.84) (sin θ)
This is wrong. The angle of incidence is the angle made on the incident ray with the normal.
 
Would I just use sin 35 then? I'm confused. :frown:
 
yes.
 
Thanks! I'll try it again:

(1.00) (sin 35) = (1.84) (sin θ)
θ = 18.2 degrees

(1.84) (sin 18.2) = (1.61) (sin θ)
θ = 20.9 degrees
 
It is correct.
 
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