Find the speed of light in silica

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SUMMARY

The speed of light in silica can be calculated using the index of refraction formula, where the index of refraction (n) equals the speed of light in vacuum (c) divided by the speed of light in the substance (v). For silica with an index of refraction of 1.437 and light of wavelength 559 nm (5.59 x 10^-7 m), the correct calculation yields a speed of light in silica of approximately 2.08 x 10^8 m/s. The error in the initial calculation stemmed from not using the correct value for c, which is 3 x 10^8 m/s.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the index of refraction concept
  • Familiarity with the speed of light in vacuum (c = 3 x 10^8 m/s)
  • Ability to convert wavelengths from nanometers to meters
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties of different materials and their indices of refraction
  • Learn about the implications of light speed in various media
  • Explore advanced optics concepts such as Snell's Law
  • Investigate the effects of wavelength on the speed of light in different substances
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics or optics courses, educators teaching light properties, and anyone interested in the behavior of light in different materials.

stickyriceyum
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Homework Statement


Light of wavelength 559nm in vacuum passes through a piece of silica (index of refraction 1.437). Find the speed of light in silica. Answer in units of m/s

Homework Equations


Index of Refraction = Speed of Light in Vacuum/Speed of Light in Substance
[n = c/v]

The Attempt at a Solution


Manipulate: [n = c/v] ---> [cn = v]
Plug in: (5.59 * 10^-7) (1.437) = (8.03 * 10^-7)

I converted 559nm to (5.59 * 10^-7) meters

It seems like a simple enough problem, but my answer is incorrect! =(
 
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Hi stickyriceyum! :smile:
stickyriceyum said:
Manipulate: [n = c/v] ---> [cn = v]
Plug in: (5.59 * 10^-7) (1.437) = (8.03 * 10^-7)


erm :redface: … try using c :wink:
 
I got it =D Thank you!
 

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