Find the speed of light in silica

AI Thread Summary
To find the speed of light in silica, the formula used is the index of refraction (n) equals the speed of light in vacuum (c) divided by the speed of light in the substance (v). Given the wavelength of light as 559 nm and the index of refraction for silica as 1.437, the calculation involves converting the wavelength to meters. The correct manipulation of the formula leads to the speed of light in silica being calculated as approximately 2.08 x 10^8 m/s. The initial attempt at the solution was incorrect, but clarification on using the correct value for c resolved the issue. The final answer is confirmed as accurate.
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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