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

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the speed of light in a transparent material when given the angles of incidence and refraction without the index of refraction. Participants suggest using Snell's law, which relates the angles and indices of refraction, to derive the speed of light in the material. There is uncertainty about whether to assume equal indices of refraction for both materials, as this could affect the angles. The consensus is that the light is initially in air or vacuum, which is critical for applying Snell's law correctly. Ultimately, the problem can be approached by deriving the index of refraction from the angles provided.
jsalapide
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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?
 
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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.
 
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