Simple Index of Refraction Question - chart

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around determining the minimum value of the index of refraction. The participant considers options including values between 0 and 1, +1, -1, and 0, noting that all values in their chart are over 1. The index of refraction is defined as the ratio of the speed of light in a vacuum to the speed of light in a material, indicating that light always travels slower in materials than in a vacuum. Consequently, the index of refraction is always greater than or equal to 1. The participant concludes that they were seeking an equation rather than a definition.
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Homework Statement



what is the minimum value that the index of refraction can have?


Homework Equations



n1sin\Thetai = n2sin\Thetar


The Attempt at a Solution



my choices are:

A - between 0 and 1

B - +1

C - -1

D - 0


all listed values in my given chart are over 1. but that is not to say there is something else it can be. how can i determine this for sure?
 
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what is the definition of index of refraction?
 
cepheid said:
what is the definition of index of refraction?

from my book:

" the index of refraction of an optical material, denoted as n, is the ration of the speed of light in a vacuum (c) to the speed of light in the material (v)

n = c / v "


ok so...light always travels more slowly in material...therefore it is always 1+



thanks for helping me find it. i told you it was simple...i was looking for an equation and not a definition.
 

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