Is it possible to solve this problem without their index of refraction

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving a light refraction problem using Snell's Law without the index of refraction. Given an angle of incidence of 30 degrees and a refracted angle of 20 degrees, the participants explore the implications of assuming equal indices of refraction for air and the transparent material. The consensus is that while Snell's Law can be applied, the lack of the index of refraction complicates the calculation of light speed within the material.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Snell's Law
  • Basic knowledge of angles of incidence and refraction
  • Familiarity with the concept of light speed in different media
  • Knowledge of the properties of transparent materials
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the derivation and application of Snell's Law
  • Learn how to calculate the speed of light in various materials
  • Explore the relationship between angle of incidence and angle of refraction
  • Investigate the concept of index of refraction and its significance in optics
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, optics enthusiasts, and anyone interested in understanding light behavior in transparent materials.

jsalapide
Messages
39
Reaction score
0
Light strikes the surface of a transparent material at an angle of incidence of 30. If the refracted angle in the transparent material is 20, what is the speed of light in the material?

Is it possible to solve this problem without their index of refraction?
If possible, how?
 
Physics news on Phys.org


Use Snell's law.
 


I've used it before, but the index of refraction is not given. Should I assume that the index of both material are equal?
 


jsalapide said:
I've used it before, but the index of refraction is not given.
But the angles are given.
Should I assume that the index of both material are equal?
If the indices were equal, could the angles be different? One thing I would assume is that the light striking the material starts out in air/vacuum.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
1K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
5K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K