Is there a special term for refractive indices when 1 is subtracted?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the concept of refractive indices in optics, specifically the notation of refractive index as n-1. Participants confirm that this notation does not have a distinct term and is still referred to as the "refractive index." The context of this notation is often used in optics to simplify calculations and understand material properties. The mention of electric susceptibility in the linked Wikipedia article provides additional context for the relationship between refractive index and material response to electric fields.

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richyw
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I have been doing a bit of studying for my optics course and I have often come across refractive indices or materials being presented as n-1 (which often makes a lot of sense). I was just wondering if there was a special term like for this format or if we still call it just the "refractive index"?

Sorry if this is in the wrong section, it's not directly for homework although I will probably use it for homework. It's more just for my own information.

thanks!
 
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