Is refractive index on each side of the parallelepiped the same?

AI Thread Summary
The refractive index of a rectangular cube parallelepiped is not the same on all sides; it varies based on the material and its isotropic or anisotropic properties. The discussion highlights that the refractive index pertains to the substance itself rather than the surface. In the case of a birefringent plate, each side can have a different refractive index, influenced by the light's path through the material. The question of whether the index of refraction is related to the distance light travels through the birefringent plate is raised, emphasizing the complexity of light interaction with such materials. Understanding these principles is crucial for accurate optical applications.
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Refractive index on each side of a rectangular cube parallelepiped: n1, n2, n3
Is this correct: n1=n2=n3?

http://image.bayimg.com/01c243801d8868097dbe98fb599b0d6aa9fb2e7d.jpg
 
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If n2 is the index of the rectangular object, then no.
 
Afair, the refractive index refers to a substance and not a surface. The picture appears to be of an isotropic object in air so all that's involved is the index of air (= nearly 1) and the index of the object material.
Is there some other definition that I don't know about or could you rephrase the question so that it makes sense to me please?
 
Any birefringence plate has tree side. we ha a birefringence plate with tree different side in size. The question is this: Is index of refraction of this birefringence plate related to the distance which light travels through it?! In other words, each side of this plate have a different refractive index or not?
 
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