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

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the behavior of light as it passes through an equilateral triangular prism, specifically focusing on the application of Snell's law to determine the exit angle of the light beam after refraction. The problem involves an incident angle of 35 degrees and a refractive index of 1.55 for the prism.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the need to apply Snell's law to find the exit angle and emphasize the importance of showing work to understand the reasoning behind the calculations. There are questions about the intermediate angles and the steps involved in the refraction process.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants seeking clarification on the application of Snell's law and the correct approach to finding the exit angle. Some guidance has been provided regarding the necessity of showing work for better understanding and partial credit.

Contextual Notes

One participant expresses feeling lost in the class and mentions an upcoming midterm, indicating a potential pressure to understand the material quickly. There is a noted lack of detailed work shown in the attempts, which may hinder the discussion's progress.

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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
 
Last edited:
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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?
 
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.
 
so using snell's law will help me find the exit angle?
 
i got i = 73.8 degree
?
 
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.
 
tuanle007 said:
so using snell's law will help me find the exit angle?

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

tuanle007 said:
i got i = 73.8 degree?

How?
 

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