Plotting reflection coefficient

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on plotting the magnitude of the reflection coefficient |r| for a transverse electric plane wave transitioning from air to glass, utilizing the formula r = (n1cosθi - n2cosθt) / (n1cosθi + n2cosθt). The user initially attempted to plot the reflection coefficient against incident angles from 0 to 90 degrees using Excel but recognized the need to calculate the transmitted angle using Snell's Law. The conversation highlights the importance of MATLAB for this task, as it is better suited for plotting functions over a range of values.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Snell's Law for calculating transmitted angles
  • Familiarity with reflection coefficients in wave physics
  • Basic knowledge of MATLAB for plotting functions
  • Experience with Excel for data visualization
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn MATLAB plotting functions for visualizing mathematical equations
  • Study Snell's Law in depth to understand angle calculations
  • Explore the concept of reflection coefficients in electromagnetic waves
  • Practice data visualization techniques in Excel for comparative analysis
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics or engineering fields, particularly those studying wave behavior, optical properties of materials, and anyone needing to visualize mathematical relationships in MATLAB or Excel.

nmsurobert
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Homework Statement


plot the magnitude |r| of the reflection coefficient as a function of incident angle from 0 to 90 degrees with a step size of 1 degree for the following cases: (ill only post one)

A transverse electric plane wave in incident from air to glass

Homework Equations


r = (n1cosθi - n2cosθt)/ (n1cosθi + n2cosθt)

The Attempt at a Solution


I was just going to plot r vs degrees but i only know the incident angles, 0 though 90. What i do about the other angle?
I'm currently trying to plot it in excel. I think he expects us to plot it in MATLAB but i have no experience with matlab.
 
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i think i solved it. i can just use snells law and figure out the angle.
 

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