Index Refraction Yell Light Sodium Lamp Liquid 1.92E8m/s

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SUMMARY

The index of refraction for a liquid in which yellow light from a sodium lamp travels at a speed of 1.92E8 m/s is calculated using the formula $$n = \dfrac{c}{v_n}$$. Here, $$c$$ is the speed of light in a vacuum, approximately 299,792,458 m/s. Substituting the values, the refractive index $$n$$ is determined to be approximately 1.56. This calculation is essential for understanding light behavior in different media.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the refractive index concept
  • Familiarity with the speed of light in a vacuum
  • Basic knowledge of light propagation in different media
  • Ability to perform mathematical calculations involving scientific notation
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  • Research the implications of refractive index in optical applications
  • Learn about the relationship between wavelength and refractive index
  • Explore the concept of total internal reflection
  • Investigate the properties of sodium lamps and their applications in lighting
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skinnermitch
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The Speed of yellow light( from a sodium lamp) in a certain liquid is measured to be 1.92E8 m/s. What is the index of refraction of this liquid for the light?
 
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skinnermitch said:
The Speed of yellow light( from a sodium lamp) in a certain liquid is measured to be 1.92E8 m/s. What is the index of refraction of this liquid for the light?

The refractive index for a given medium is given by $$n = \dfrac{c}{v_n}$$Where $$n$$ is the refractive index, $$c$$ is the speed of light in a vacuum defined as ($$299,792,458 \text{ m/s} \approx 3 \times 10^8 \text{ m/s}$$) and $$v_n$$ is the speed of light in the medium in m/s

In your case $$c = 299792458 \text{ m/s}$$ and $$v_n = 1.92 \times 10^8 \text{ m/s}$$

nb: Some books don't mind you using 3E8, others do.
 

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