The discussion centers around the speed of light in different media, specifically comparing its speed in a vacuum to its speed in water. Participants explore concepts related to light propagation, refraction, and the implications of light's behavior in various materials.
Participants generally disagree on the interpretation of light's speed in different media. While some maintain that light is slower in water, others contend that the speed of light remains constant at c, with the observed differences being due to interactions with the medium.
There are unresolved questions regarding the definitions of speed in different contexts (e.g., phase velocity vs. group velocity) and the implications of quantum mechanics on classical interpretations of light propagation.
This discussion may be of interest to individuals studying optics, physics students seeking clarification on light behavior, and those curious about the foundational concepts of light in various media.
Joza said:I've only got high school physics at the moment, so bare with me.
I'm confused? If you timed 2 beams of light traveling the same distance, yet one was in a vacuum, the other say something very dense, like a diamond. Which would reach the end first? The one in the denser medium is slower than in the vacuum yes? Or does time slow down somewhere :D ??