I used the equation n1sinθ1 = n2sinθ2 and plugged in the values.

[tuanle007]

Homework Statement

light is incident on an equilateral triangular prism (n=1.55) at a 35 degree angle from the normal to one of the faces. What is the exit angle?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

45 degree

 

[sx70]

This isn't a coherence question (or advanced physics) but here goes -
You haven't shown any of your work, so let's break this down and go from the beginning - you should know that the beam of light bends as it passes through the first surface of the prism - you should know of a law that describes how much bending occurs. Then what happens to the beam of light?

 

[astrorob]

As sx70 said, you really should show your working.

For further reference, look here:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snell's_law

 

[tuanle007]

thanks for everyone's help.
i really don't know where to start with this problem.
i am really lost in this class and i have a midterm next wednesday.

 

[tuanle007]

so using snell's law will help me find the exit angle?

 

[tuanle007]

i got i = 73.8 degree
?

 

[sx70]

73.8 degrees? Not yet. I was only looking for the angle inside the prism, then we were going to go thru and refract again at the second surface. You really need to show your work so I know what you're thinking - that's the way you get partial credit.

 

[astrorob]

so using snell's law will help me find the exit angle?

Yes, it's the only law you'll need to solve this.

i got i = 73.8 degree?

How?