Dispersion/total internal reflection

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the index of refraction of air just above a roadway, specifically in the context of a mirage phenomenon. The problem involves a truck driver observing an illusion of water due to the refraction of light in superheated air, where the index of refraction is given as n=1.0003. The critical angle is calculated using the formula \(\Theta_c = \sin^{-1}(n_1/n_2)\), resulting in a critical angle of 88.6 degrees. The next step involves applying Snell's Law, \(n_1 \sin(\Theta_1) = n_2 \sin(\Theta_2)\), to find the unknown index of refraction (n2).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Snell's Law and total internal reflection
  • Familiarity with the concept of critical angle in optics
  • Basic knowledge of indices of refraction
  • Ability to manipulate trigonometric functions and equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and applications of Snell's Law in various media
  • Explore the concept of total internal reflection in optical fibers
  • Learn about the effects of temperature on the index of refraction
  • Investigate real-world applications of mirages and atmospheric optics
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, optical engineers, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of light refraction and total internal reflection.

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Homework Statement



Consider a common mirage formed by superheated air just above a roadway. A truck driver whose eyes are 2.00 m above the road, where n=1.0003 looks forward. She has the illusion of seeing a patch of water ahead on the road, where her line of sight makes an angle of 1.20 degrees below the horizontal. Find the index of refraction of the air just above the road surface. (Hint: Treat this as a problem one involving total internal reflection)

Homework Equations



\Thetac=sin-1(n1/n2)

n1sin\Theta1=n2sin\Theta2

The Attempt at a Solution



So since the textbook said to treat it as a problem with total internal reflection, i figured that I would solve for \Thetac and so I did

\Thetac=sin-1(n1/n2)
\Thetac=sin-1(1/1.0003)
\Thetac= 88.6

and I just have absolutely no idea what to do from here.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
n1*sin(theta 1) = n2*sin(theta 2)
In the problem n1, theta 1 and theta 2 is known. Find n2.
 

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