How to Calculate θ3 After Finding θ2 Using Snell's Law?

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Using Snell's Law, the user successfully calculated θ2 as 40.1 degrees but is now seeking to determine θ3. Participants suggest applying Snell's Law again to find θ3 and recommend drawing a sketch for clarity. There is confusion regarding the angles and notation, with a discussion on whether θ3 could be equal to θ2. Ultimately, it is clarified that θ3 will not be the same as θ2, emphasizing the need for careful analysis of the angles involved.
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Homework Statement
Block A has a refractive index of 1.52, Block B has a refractive index of 1.2, and Block C has a refractive index of 1.4.
A ray of light travels through air into Block A. Assume air has a refractive index of 1 and θ1 = 78°.
Calculate angles θ2-θ8.
Relevant Equations
n1sin(θ1)=n1sin(θ2)
I used Snell's law to find θ2 as 40,1 (3sf) but now I'm stuck on finding θ3.

Is there a way to find θ3 without using geometry? How do I do this?
 
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betterscientist said:
I'm stuck on finding θ3
How about using the same law again ?

Can you make (and post) a sketch of the situation ?

##\ ##
 
Apologies. I saw I have left out the image.
 

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Good thing you now posted the picture. Differs from what I had in mind. And where is block C ? :wink: ?
 
BvU said:
Good thing you now posted the picture. Differs from what I had in mind. And where is block C ? :wink: ?
 
Sorry again. Cropped it out since it was irrelevant to the question I had issues with. I should have double checked my initial question/statement.
 

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So far you found angle ##X_1##. So ##X_2 = ## ?
Now draw ##\theta_3## in the picture

Change of notation.
So far you found angle ##\theta_2##. So ##\theta_3 = ## ?

For ##\theta_4## you can use Snellius again. Etc..

##\ ##
 
BvU said:
So far you found angle ##X_1##. So ##X_2 = ## ?
Now draw ##\theta_3## in the picture

Change of notation.
So far you found angle ##\theta_2##. So ##\theta_3 = ## ?

For ##\theta_4## you can use Snellius again. Etc..

##\ ##
would theta 3 be the same as theta 2 (40,1)?
 
betterscientist said:
would theta 3 be the same as theta 2 (40,1)?
Do they look the same?
 
  • #10
Of course not.
1714730073367.png
 
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