Mathematical description of Refractive index in crystal/glass

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the mathematical description of the refractive index in crystal and glass, specifically exploring its relationship to the number of electrons per unit volume and the underlying physical principles.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant mentions that the refractive index of glass is related to the number of electrons per unit volume and seeks a quantitative description.
  • Another participant suggests consulting the Feynman Lectures for a simpler understanding of the origin of the refractive index, indicating that it is not complicated if one understands the model of electrons bound to atoms by a restoring force.
  • A different participant warns against using primitive models for engineering applications and cautions against drawing comparisons between different types of glass based on these models.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on the validity of the models discussed, with some participants advocating for simpler explanations while others express skepticism about their applicability in engineering contexts.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the reliance on potentially oversimplified models and the lack of a clear quantitative framework for the relationship between refractive index and electron density.

Panthera Leo
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Hi,

I have read on a website that the refractive index of glass is related to the number of electrons it has per unit volume.

I don't recall which website it was, but is it true? & if so what is the quantitative description behind it? or is it a lot more complicated :)

Many thanks for the replies.
 
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you should better take a look in feynman lectures vol.1(the origin of refractive index) and 2 both.it is not complicated if you know that an electron can be pictured as bounded to atom by a restoring force.
 
These are very primitive models. Please don't extrapolate any engineering value nor deduce any comparison between glass from these models.
 
andrien said:
you should better take a look in feynman lectures vol.1(the origin of refractive index) and 2 both.it is not complicated if you know that an electron can be pictured as bounded to atom by a restoring force.

Thank you very much indeed.
 

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