Size of a light beam before and after Refraction

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on whether the size of a light beam remains the same before and after refraction through a medium. Participants express confusion about the mathematical proof for the beam's size consistency, questioning how the width can change while the angle of deviation remains constant. The concept of beam width is clarified as the distance perpendicular to the direction of travel, leading to further inquiries about the relationship between deviation angles and beam width. Visual aids are requested to better illustrate the situation. The conversation highlights the complexities of understanding light behavior during refraction.
csirvi
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The size of light beam is same or different before and after refraction from a medium. If same then why we can not prove from mathematical expression. If not same why?
 
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csirvi said:
Summary:: The size of light beam is same or different before and after refraction from a medium. If same then why we can not prove from mathematical expression. If not same why?

The size of light beam is same or different before and after refraction from a medium. If same then why we can not prove from mathematical expression. If not same why?
Doesn't look the same size to me...

https://cdn3.vectorstock.com/i/1000...rism-ray-rainbow-spectrum-vector-22696987.jpg

1590153600288.png
 
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Its helpful. . One more question is that if we take single color then the angle of deviation is same but also width of beam after refraction changes mathematically how that is physically possible ?
 
Can you post a picture or diagram of the situation you are asking about? Thanks. :smile:
 
Screenshot_20200522-214642.jpg
 
csirvi said:
then the angle of deviation is same but also width of beam after refraction changes mathematically
Does it? The width of the beam is the distance along a perpendicular to the direction of travel. Look carefully at the angles that you're taking teh cosine of... are these what you want?
 
Nugatory said:
Does it? The width of the beam is the distance along a perpendicular to the direction of travel. Look carefully at the angles that you're taking teh cosine of... are these what you want?
See width represent soze of beam yes that perpendicular to the Direction of travel.
My question is when the deviation angle same why the width is variable
 
berkeman said:
Can you post a picture or diagram of the situation you are asking about? Thanks. :smile:
Posted the image.
 
berkeman said:
Can you post a picture or diagram of the situation you are asking about? Thanks. :smile:
Screenshot_20200522-214642.jpg
 
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