Graduate Interpretation of a complex angle of refraction

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the complexities of refractive index as described by Snell's law, particularly in the context of thermal radiation waves at the interface between dielectric and absorbing materials. It highlights the significance of both the real and imaginary components of the refraction angle, as outlined in section 14.2 of "Principles of Optics" by Born and Wolf (7th edition). The conversation emphasizes that waves in absorptive media exhibit inhomogeneity, leading to discrepancies between surfaces of constant phase and constant amplitude. Additionally, it notes the change in polarization of reflected light, which can be utilized to ascertain the optical constants of absorptive materials.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Snell's Law in optics
  • Familiarity with refractive index components (real and imaginary)
  • Knowledge of wave behavior in absorptive media
  • Basic concepts of polarization in light
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the implications of complex refractive indices in optical engineering
  • Explore the principles of thermal radiation and its interaction with materials
  • Research the methods for determining optical constants using polarized light
  • Examine section 14.2 of "Principles of Optics" by Born and Wolf for detailed theoretical insights
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, optical engineers, and materials scientists interested in advanced optics, particularly those working with absorptive materials and thermal radiation phenomena.

elad
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what is the meaning of complex angle of refraction?
Hi,

Refractive index can be complex.
When Snell's law is taken into account refraction angle can also be complex.
What is the meaning of the imaginary part and the real part of the refraction angle?
Which angle should I take into account when I want to follow the direction of a thermal radiation wave which is refracted (in the case of interphase between a dielectric material and an absorbing material)?
 
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Born and Wolf has a good discussion of this subject in section 14.2 (7th edition). Without reproducing the lengthy expressions involved, the basic result is that waves in absorptive media are inhomogeneous: the surfaces of constant phase and surfaces of constant amplitude are no longer coincident.

Another aspect is that the phase of the reflected light is different than the phase of incident light; linearly polarized incident light becomes elliptically polarized. This can be used to determine the optical constants (real and imaginary components of the refractive index) of absorptive materials.
 
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