How does light travel faster in optically rarer medium?

AI Thread Summary
Light travels faster in optically rarer mediums due to the lower density of molecules, which allows for less interaction and obstruction as it passes through. In contrast, light moves more slowly in denser mediums because the increased number of molecules leads to more frequent interactions. The phenomenon is complex and involves principles of optics and wave behavior. Understanding this concept can be aided by referring to detailed FAQs on the subject. Overall, the relationship between light speed and medium density is a fundamental aspect of optics.
Anithadhruvbud
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Is it because that there are less molecules within one unit volume in rarer medium that light is able to travel through it easier?
 
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Anithadhruvbud said:
Is it because that there are less molecules within one unit volume in rarer medium that light is able to travel through it easier?
Welcome to PF Anitha!

Light travels more slowly in any medium other than a vacuum. It is rather complex, actually. There is a very good FAQ on this.

AM
 
Andrew Mason said:
Welcome to PF Anitha!

Light travels more slowly in any medium otheraman a vacuum. It is rather complex, actually. There is a very good FAQ on this.

AM
Thanks a ton! I clearly understood the reason
 
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