Show the Solution to a Cartesian Oval Homework Problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion revolves around solving a homework problem related to the Cartesian Oval, specifically demonstrating that the equation of the interface curve is l_0n_1 + l_i n_2 = K, where K is a constant. The participant successfully derived the expressions for l_0 and l_i as l_0 = √(x² + y²) and l_i = √(y² + (s_0 + s_i - x)²). The solution involved applying principles of optics, particularly the constant time taken by light traveling from point S to point P, utilizing Snell's law and the concept of light velocity in different media.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Snell's Law in optics
  • Familiarity with Fermat's Principle of least time
  • Knowledge of light propagation and velocity in different media
  • Basic algebra and geometry for manipulating equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of Snell's Law in detail
  • Explore Fermat's Principle and its applications in optics
  • Learn about the properties of Cartesian Ovals and their equations
  • Investigate the relationship between light velocity and refractive indices
USEFUL FOR

Students studying optics, physics enthusiasts, and anyone tackling problems related to light behavior in different media will benefit from this discussion.

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Homework Statement


See the picture for the situation of the problem.
I'm told that any ray starting from S and getting through the "Cartesian Oval" reach point P.
I must show that the equation of the interface curve is l_0n_1+l_i n_2=K where K is a constant.
So far I've showed that l_0=\sqrt {x^2+y^2} and l_i=\sqrt {y^2+(s_0 + s_i -x)^2}. But I remain stuck as how to proceed further.
Any idea is greatly appreciated.

Homework Equations


Snell's law? I've tried something with it but didn't reach anything.
Maybe Fermat's principle?

The Attempt at a Solution


See above.
 

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Since the points S and P are fixed, the total time taken by the light to travel from S to P must be constant.
So t1 = l1/v1 and t2 = l2/v2
Now v1 = C/n1 and v2 = C/n2, where C is the velocity of the light in vacuum.
Hence find t = t1 + t2 = ...?
 
Last edited:


rl.bhat said:
Since the points S and P are fixed, the total time taken by the light to travel from S to P must be constant.
So t1 = l1/v1 and t2 = l2/v2
Now v1 = C/n1 and v2 = C/n2, where C is the velocity of the light.
Hence find t = t1 + t2 = ...?

Thank you so much! Really bright and not complicated. Yet I totally missed it.
Problem solved!
 

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