Calculate Distance Light Travels in Reflection from Light Fibre

In summary, the problem involves a ray of light entering a light fibre at an angle of 16° with the long axis of the fiber. The task is to calculate the distance the light ray travels between successive reflections off the side of the fibre, assuming a diameter of 1.03x10-4 m. The solution may not require the use of any optics equations, as simple trigonometry could suffice. The value of n=1.00 may be needed for air.
  • #1
sdoyle1
23
0

Homework Statement


A ray of light enters a light fibre so that it hits the side at an angle of 16° with the long axis of the fiber, . Calculate the distance the light ray travels between successive reflections off the side of the fibre. Assume that the fibre is 1.03x10-4 m in diameter.


Homework Equations



I don't really know where to start I think you need to use n=1.00 for air but I'm not really sure

The Attempt at a Solution


Again, I'm not sure what to do.. Should we use snell's law? Not sure how to relate this back to the distance the light travels.. or should it be the mirror equation? 1/f=1/p+1/q
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Draw out the path of the light ray. You don't need to use any optics equations; simple trigonometry would do.
 

1. How is the distance light travels in reflection calculated from a light fiber?

The distance light travels in reflection from a light fiber can be calculated using the formula: distance = (speed of light x time) / 2. This formula takes into account that light travels at a constant speed and that it will travel back and forth in the fiber, hence dividing by 2.

2. What factors affect the distance light travels in reflection from a light fiber?

The distance light travels in reflection from a light fiber can be affected by the length and quality of the fiber, as well as any obstructions or bends in the fiber that may cause light to scatter or be absorbed.

3. How does the distance light travels in reflection differ from the distance it travels in transmission through a light fiber?

In reflection, light travels back and forth within the fiber, covering a longer distance compared to transmission where it travels in a single direction. This means that the distance light travels in reflection will always be longer than the distance it travels in transmission.

4. Can the distance light travels in reflection be measured experimentally?

Yes, the distance light travels in reflection from a light fiber can be measured experimentally by using equipment such as a laser, a light sensor, and a timer. By sending a pulse of light through the fiber and recording the time it takes for the reflection to return, the distance can be calculated using the formula mentioned in the first question.

5. Why is it important to calculate the distance light travels in reflection from light fibers?

Calculating the distance light travels in reflection from light fibers is important in various fields such as telecommunications and medical imaging. It allows engineers and scientists to design and optimize fiber optic systems for efficient and reliable transmission of light signals. In medical imaging, it helps in determining the resolution and accuracy of images produced by fiber optic endoscopes and other devices.

Similar threads

Optics: refraction and reflection
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
937
Light beam fired in a moving train (relativity)
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
23
Views
1K
How does graded-index material reduce pulse spreading in optical fibres?
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
1K
Shining light on a retreating object
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
924
The maximum intensity for light transmitted through a thin film
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
2K
Deflection of light passing the Sun
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
778
Fizeau's Experiment (Speed of light)
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
3K
Internal Reflection / Fiber Optics
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
2K
Question on the Newtonian displacement of light
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
12
Views
1K
Film Thickness for Minimum Reflection of Monochromatic Light: How to Calculate?
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
12
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top