Can Total Internal Reflection Occur in a Prism Immersed in Water?

AI Thread Summary
Total internal reflection can occur in a prism immersed in water if the angle of incidence exceeds the critical angle. The critical angle can be calculated using the refractive indices of water (n_w = 1.33) and glass (n_glass = 1.5). The equation n1sin(θc) = n2sin(90°) helps determine the critical angle, where n1 is the refractive index of water and n2 is that of glass. The geometry of the prism is crucial for understanding how light behaves at the interface, as it affects the angles involved. A clear diagram of the prism would aid in visualizing the situation and confirming the conditions for total internal reflection.
Glen Maverick
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Homework Statement



If one immersed the prism in water (nw=1.33), would it be possible to obtain total internal reflection within the prism? Explain.

Homework Equations



n1sin(θc)=n2sin(90o), where nglass=1.5.

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried to solve for the unknown angle θc. Total internal reflection happens at θ1 >= θc. But I can't find which is n1 and n2, and which angle is which. And I am not even sure I am using the right equation for this problem. Is this problem having to do with calculation or related to theory or law? I would be very appreciated if you give me a hand.
 
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n1 is the refractive index on the side of θc (i.e. the water side), while n2 is the refractive index on the side of the 90 degrees. That said, you need to show us what the prism looks like. That makes a big difference to the answer of the question.
 
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