Help with Optic/Wave Question - Prove Entry Ray Exits Parallel

  • Thread starter Thread starter Arowana
  • Start date Start date
Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a problem in optics, specifically regarding the behavior of light rays as they enter and exit a medium. The original poster seeks to prove that the entry ray exits parallel to the entry ray and to derive an expression for the offset between the entry and exiting rays based on the thickness of the medium and the angle of incidence.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster has attempted to draw a diagram and perform mathematical calculations but struggles to articulate the proof in words. They also express confusion regarding the second part of the question and how to apply trigonometry.

Discussion Status

Some participants have suggested sharing the mathematical calculations to facilitate understanding. Others have proposed using trigonometric principles and drawing diagrams to visualize the problem, indicating a collaborative effort to clarify the concepts involved.

Contextual Notes

The original poster expresses significant stress over the simplicity of the question, indicating a possible emotional barrier to engaging with the material. There is no indication of imposed homework rules or constraints mentioned in the discussion.

Arowana
Messages
7
Reaction score
0
hi, i know that the entry ray of light into a medium will exits parrallel to the entry ray. The problem ask me to prove it. i have drawn a diagram and done the mathematical calculation. i just can't put it into words, could some one please help me out.


and 2nd part to that question is

Derive an expression for the offset of the entry and exiting rays if the
thickness of the sheet is T and the ray enters at an angle of incidence of θ.


aaaaaahhh...im so stress out..because of this simple question.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Perhaps, if you could show the mathematical calculation. Will your tutor not accept a proof based on calculations?

For you second part, simply use trig...

~H
 
thanks hootenanny


umm...i still don't get the 2nd part, how do i use trig?
 
Arowana said:
umm...i still don't get the 2nd part, how do i use trig?

Try drawing a diagram and making right triangles with the rays of light as the hypotenues.

~H
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
3K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
7K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 25 ·
Replies
25
Views
6K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
9K