Refraction of light in a pool

In summary, the depth of the water in the pool is 70.0 cm, the light source at the bottom of the pool has a diameter of 10.0 cm, and the observer is 2.50 m away from the edge of the pool. The question asks for the diameter of the cone of light emitted from the water into the air above. This is a critical angle problem where the maximum angle of refraction is needed to calculate the diameter of the cone. The answer choices are a) 1.60 m, b) 1.70 m, c) 1.75 m, and d) 1.80 m.
  • #1
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Homework Statement


At the shallow end of a swimming pool, the water is 70.0 cm deep. The diameter of the cone of the light emerging from the water into the air above, emitted by a light source 10.0 cm in diameter at the bottom of the pool and measured by an observer on the edge of the pool 2.50 m away, is
a) 1.60 m
b) 1.70 m
c) 1.75 m
d) 1.80 m


Homework Equations


nsin(angle)=nsin(angle)
nsin(criticalangle)=nsin90


The Attempt at a Solution


I am really confused, can anybody help me? I don't know where to start.

Thanks
 
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  • #2
i don't sure the situation is clear. how tall is the observer?
 
  • #3
This is a critical angle problem. Draw a diagram of the light (at the bottom of the pool) being emitted at all angles. Figure out the maximum angle that will be refracted--anything greater will just be reflected by the water surface--and use that to calculate the diameter of the cone.
 

1. What is refraction of light in a pool?

Refraction of light in a pool is the phenomenon where light waves passing through the surface of a pool are bent due to the change in density between air and water.

2. Why does refraction occur in a pool?

Refraction occurs in a pool because light travels at different speeds in different mediums, and when it travels from air to water, it changes direction due to the change in density.

3. How does refraction affect the appearance of objects in a pool?

Refraction can make objects in a pool appear distorted or shifted, as the light waves are bent when they pass through the surface of the water. This can also result in objects appearing closer or farther away than they actually are.

4. Can refraction in a pool be controlled or manipulated?

Yes, refraction in a pool can be controlled by changing the angle at which light enters the water. This can be done by tilting the pool or using special lenses to bend the light in specific ways.

5. Does refraction in a pool have any practical uses?

Yes, refraction in a pool has practical uses in fields such as photography and architecture. By understanding how light is refracted in a pool, photographers can use it to create interesting and unique images. In architecture, designers can use refraction to create illusions and manipulate the appearance of objects in a pool.

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