I used the equation n1sinθ1 = n2sinθ2 and plugged in the values.

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on applying Snell's Law to determine the exit angle of light passing through an equilateral triangular prism with a refractive index of 1.55. The incident angle is given as 35 degrees. Participants emphasize the importance of showing work for clarity and partial credit, and confirm that Snell's Law is the primary method for solving the problem. The correct approach involves calculating the angle of refraction at the first surface before determining the exit angle at the second surface.

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  • Understanding of Snell's Law and its application in optics
  • Familiarity with the concept of refractive index
  • Basic knowledge of geometry related to prisms
  • Ability to perform trigonometric calculations
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  • Study the derivation and applications of Snell's Law in different media
  • Learn how to calculate angles of refraction for various shapes of prisms
  • Explore the concept of total internal reflection and its implications
  • Investigate the behavior of light in multi-surface optical systems
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Students studying optics, physics educators, and anyone preparing for exams involving light behavior in prisms.

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Homework Statement



light is incident on an equilateral triangular prism (n=1.55) at a 35 degree angle from the normal to one of the faces. What is the exit angle?

Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution



45 degree
 
Last edited:
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This isn't a coherence question (or advanced physics) but here goes -
You haven't shown any of your work, so let's break this down and go from the beginning - you should know that the beam of light bends as it passes through the first surface of the prism - you should know of a law that describes how much bending occurs. Then what happens to the beam of light?
 
thanks for everyone's help.
i really don't know where to start with this problem.
i am really lost in this class and i have a midterm next wednesday.
 
so using snell's law will help me find the exit angle?
 
i got i = 73.8 degree
?
 
73.8 degrees? Not yet. I was only looking for the angle inside the prism, then we were going to go thru and refract again at the second surface. You really need to show your work so I know what you're thinking - that's the way you get partial credit.
 
tuanle007 said:
so using snell's law will help me find the exit angle?

Yes, it's the only law you'll need to solve this.

tuanle007 said:
i got i = 73.8 degree?

How?
 

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