How Do You Calculate the Angle of an Emerging Light Beam in Refractive Layers?

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To calculate the angle of an emerging light beam through multiple refractive layers, Snell's Law is essential, specifically using the formula n1*sin(θ1) = n2*sin(θ2). For Part 1, the user attempts to find the emerging angle given an incident angle of 29.1 degrees and refractive indices of n1 = 1.58 and n2 = 1.39, but their calculations yield an incorrect result of 0.662. For Part 2, the user seeks guidance on determining the incident angle required for total internal reflection between n3 = 1.21 and n4 = 1.00. The discussion emphasizes the need for careful application of Snell's Law to solve these problems accurately. Clear understanding and correct application of the refractive indices are crucial for finding the correct angles.
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Homework Statement


I am preparing for a test. I really need help with this is problem. I uploaded a picture for the figure.
The figure below shows the path of a beam of light through several layers (n1 = 1.58, n2 = 1.39, n3 = 1.21 and n4 = 1.00) of different indices of refraction.

PART1 ASKS:
If
mimetex.gif
= 29.1o, what is the angle,
mimetex.gif
, of the emerging beam?

PART 2:
What must the incident angle,
mimetex.gif
, be in order to have total internal reflection at the surface between the n3 = 1.21 medium and the n4 = 1.00 medium?

Homework Equations



We have to use Snell's Law: which is n1sin=n2sin

The Attempt at a Solution



FOR PART 1: This is what I did:
I know N for 1 and 2. The angle is 29.1 as given. So...
[/B]
mimetex.gif
sin^-1=(n1/n2*sin) sin^-1=(1.58/1.39*sin29.1). I get .662 which is off.

For Part 2: I am clueless.

Please guide me.
 

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premed_love said:
mimetex.gif
sin^-1=(n1/n2*sin) sin^-1=(1.58/1.39*sin29.1). I get .662 which is off.
Your equation makes no sense to me. Try again? Start with Snell's law again, carefully.
 
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