Indices of refraction when wavelengths are given

In summary, when given specific wavelengths, indices of refraction can be calculated using Snell's law and the formula n=c/v, where n is the index of refraction, c is the speed of light in a vacuum, and v is the speed of light in the given medium. The index of refraction is a measure of how much the speed of light is reduced when passing through a medium, and can vary depending on the wavelength of the light. A higher index of refraction indicates a slower speed of light in the medium, and is often used to describe the optical properties of materials.
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ikihi
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Homework Statement


A parallel beam of light containing two wavelengths, λ1= 400 nm and λ2= 650 nm, enters the silicate flint glass (at a angle of 41 degrees, relative to normal) of an equilateral triangle (60 degrees at each angle) prism. At what angle, relative to the normal, does each beam leave the prism.

Homework Equations


nair ⋅ sinθ1 = nprism ⋅ sinθ2

The Attempt at a Solution



I don't get how to get the two different indices of refraction for the prism, one for each given wavelength.
 

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If not given, I would look them up on the internet.
 
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1. What is an index of refraction?

An index of refraction is a measure of how much a material can bend or slow down light as it passes through. It is represented by the symbol "n" and is dependent on the material's density and composition.

2. How is the index of refraction related to the wavelength of light?

The index of refraction is inversely proportional to the wavelength of light. This means that as the wavelength of light increases, the index of refraction decreases, and vice versa.

3. What is the formula for calculating the index of refraction?

The formula for calculating the index of refraction is n = c/v, where "c" is the speed of light in a vacuum and "v" is the speed of light in the material.

4. How do different materials have different indices of refraction?

Different materials have different indices of refraction because they have different densities and compositions, which affect how much they can slow down or bend light.

5. How is the index of refraction used in practical applications?

The index of refraction is used in a variety of practical applications, such as designing lenses for glasses and cameras, determining the critical angle for total internal reflection, and measuring the concentration of solutes in a solution using a refractometer.

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