Optics problem --- absorbtion index

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the absorption index in optics, specifically in the context of a weakly absorbing slab. Participants explore the relationship between transmittance, refractive index, thickness, and absorption coefficient.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a formula for transmittance in a weakly absorbing slab, involving the reflection coefficient and absorption coefficient.
  • Another participant seeks clarification on the specifics of the variables used in the formula, including the refractive index of the ambient medium and the slab.
  • It is noted that if the transmittance, refractive index, and thickness are known, one can calculate the absorption coefficient α, and subsequently the extinction coefficient k if the wavelength is also known.
  • Participants emphasize the importance of measuring transmittance with high accuracy, suggesting at least 0.1% accuracy is necessary for reliable results.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the relationships between the variables involved in calculating the absorption index, but there is some initial confusion regarding the specifics of the parameters and their definitions.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the exact values for the absorption index or the specific calculations, as participants focus on the relationships and necessary conditions for accurate measurement.

marcis
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Hello
I have an optic problem

I want to calculate absorption index

I know transmittance by 90% ;refraction index to material 1.586 ; thickness 2 mm ; power of source 21 lm
 
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The transmittance of a weakly absorbing slab can be approximated by

T=\frac{(1-R^2) e^{-\alpha d}}{1-R^2 e^{-2\alpha d}}
where
##R=\left(\frac{n_0-n}{n_0+n}\right)^2##
and α is the absorption coefficient. It is related to k, the imaginary part of the complex refractive index : ##\alpha = \frac{4 \pi k }{\lambda }##
 
ehild said:
The transmittance of a weakly absorbing slab can be approximated by

T=\frac{(1-R^2) e^{-\alpha d}}{1-R^2 e^{-2\alpha d}}
where
##R=\left(\frac{n_0-n}{n_0+n}\right)^2##
and α is the absorption coefficient. It is related to k, the imaginary part of the complex refractive index : ##\alpha = \frac{4 \pi k }{\lambda }##
thank you for your answer but you are not specific
 
marcis said:
thank you for your answer but you are not specific
What is not clear? no is the refractive index of the ambient (air). n is the refractive index of the slab, d is its thickness. λ is the wavelength. k is the extinction coefficient. If you know the transmittance, the refractive index and the thickness, and taking no=1, you can calculate α. If you know α and the wavelength, you can get k. I think, it is you want to calculate.
You need to measure the transmittance with as high accuracy as possible. At least 0.1% accuracy is needed.
 
ehild said:
What is not clear? no is the refractive index of the ambient (air). n is the refractive index of the slab, d is its thickness. λ is the wavelength. k is the extinction coefficient. If you know the transmittance, the refractive index and the thickness, and taking no=1, you can calculate α. If you know α and the wavelength, you can get k. I think, it is you want to calculate.
You need to measure the transmittance with as high accuracy as possible. At least 0.1% accuracy is needed.
now is clear thanks
 

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