For n1 = 2.15 and n2 = 1.26, what is the critical angle so that all of

AI Thread Summary
To determine the critical angle for total internal reflection between two media with refractive indices n1 = 2.15 and n2 = 1.26, the formula Sin ic = n1/n2 is used. However, the calculation of Sin ic yields a value greater than 1, leading to a math error when attempting to find the inverse sine. Participants suggest starting from Snell's law and rearranging the equation to isolate n2 for clarity. The discussion emphasizes the importance of careful algebraic manipulation to avoid errors and achieve a positive value for n2. Understanding these calculations is crucial for accurately determining the critical angle in optical physics.
Sloan650
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For n1 = 2.15 and n2 = 1.26, what is the critical angle so that all of the incident light, from medium 1 to medium 2 is reflected?



Im using Sin ic = n1/n2



For Sin ic i get =1.706

But the reverse Sin of that comes up math error?

HELP
 
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Sloan650 said:
Im using Sin ic = n1/n2
You're mixing up n1 and n2. Start from Snell's law and derive the expression for total internal reflection.
 


Thank you!

I need help rearranging the equation too, I am finding it impossible!

Nmax = 4a/lamda x sqaureroot (N1^2 - N2^2)

I need to find n2
 


Firstly you gave this equation:

Nmax = 4a/lamda x sqaureroot (N1^2 - N2^2)

Am I correct to think this is equivalent?

N_{max}=\frac{4a}{λ} \sqrt{n_{1}^{2}-n_{2}^{2}}

(I would suggest in future as opposed to using "x" to indicate multiplies, I would use "*". Simply for clarity)

If this is the case begin by squaring both sides of the equation, and then attempt to isolate the n_{2} term.
 


I have no idea how to rearrange this.

i know by squaring both sides the sqaure root will disappear. But on the other side Nmax = 1.

How does it rearrange so i get a positive number to square root to find n2?
 


Sloan650 said:
i know by squaring both sides the sqaure root will disappear. But on the other side Nmax = 1.
So?
How does it rearrange so i get a positive number to square root to find n2?
Start by squaring both sides and then go from there.
 


Find an equation for n2, and then try to understand what this means.
 


Im so confused :(

every time i try to rearrange to find n2 i get math error!
 


Sloan650 said:
every time i try to rearrange to find n2 i get math error!
Show what you did symbolically, step by step.
 
  • #10


This is due to you doing it on a calculator. Rearrange it on paper, so that you have

n2= ...
 
  • #11
Do I have to multiply out the brackets?
 
  • #12


The term \sqrt{n_{1}^{2}-n_{2}^{2}}=\sqrt{(n_{1}^{2}-n_{2}^{2})}

So by squaring you will get

N_{max}^{2}=(\frac{4a}{λ})^{2} (n_{1}^{2}-n_{2}^{2})

It would be more convenient if you multiplied both sides of (\frac{λ}{4a})^{2} rather than multiplying out the brackets.
 
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