Max Angle of Incidence for Light Ray in Water-Glass System

In summary, the question involves a 1-cm-thick layer of water on a horizontal slab of glass, with light from a source within the glass being incident on the glass-water boundary. The maximum angle of incidence for the light ray to emerge into the air above the water is found by using the equation theta = sin^-1 * (1.33/1.5) = 62.46 degrees. However, this answer may need to be adjusted due to the presence of two interfaces - the glass-water interface and the water-air interface.
  • #1
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[SOLVED] Max angle of incidence...help!

Homework Statement


A 1-cm-thick layer of water stands on a horizontal slab of glass. Light from a source within the glass is incident on the glass-water boundary. What is the maximum angle of incidence for which the light ray can emerge into the air above the water? (Give your answer in degrees.)


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



Isn't this just theta = sin^-1 * (1.33/1.5) = 62.46 degrees but that's not right. And I probably need to do something with the 1 cm thick layer of water but I don't know what?
 
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  • #2
There are two interfaces. The glass-water interface and the water-air interface.
 
Last edited:
  • #3
oh wait yea I got it thanks!
 

1. What is the max angle of incidence?

The max angle of incidence is the maximum angle at which a ray of light can strike a surface and still be reflected according to the law of reflection.

2. How is the max angle of incidence calculated?

The max angle of incidence can be calculated by using the formula: angle of incidence = angle of reflection = 90 degrees - critical angle.

3. What is the critical angle?

The critical angle is the angle of incidence at which the refracted ray of light travels along the surface of the material, rather than passing through it, resulting in total internal reflection.

4. What factors affect the max angle of incidence?

The max angle of incidence is affected by the index of refraction of the material, the angle of incidence, and the polarization of the incident light.

5. Why is understanding the max angle of incidence important?

Understanding the max angle of incidence is important in various fields such as optics, astronomy, and engineering. It helps in designing and optimizing optical systems and determining the limitations of certain materials.

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