Snells law of refraction measuring displacement through medium

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on applying Snell's Law to calculate the sideways displacement of a light ray as it travels through a medium of width D. The equation used is n1sin(x1) = n2sin(x2), where n represents the refractive indices of the two media. The user seeks clarification on how to incorporate the refractive index into their calculations, particularly in relation to the Pythagorean theorem and trigonometric functions. The problem referenced is labeled as study problem 3A.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Snell's Law and its application in optics
  • Familiarity with trigonometric functions and their relationships
  • Basic knowledge of geometry, specifically the Pythagorean theorem
  • Ability to interpret diagrams related to light refraction
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and applications of Snell's Law in different media
  • Learn how to apply the Pythagorean theorem in optics problems
  • Explore the relationship between refractive index and angle of incidence
  • Review trigonometric identities and their use in solving physics problems
USEFUL FOR

Students studying optics, physics educators, and anyone involved in solving problems related to light refraction and displacement in different media.

georg gill
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Homework Statement



I have tried to solve the displacement sideways of an lightray through a medium with snells law. The question is how much does the ray travel in x-direction in the new medium with width D. It says in the text that one should use pytagoras but I can't seem to understand where the index n fits in the problemsolving. Belove is the answer. What does n mean for the trigonometrics? I have a link to the answer below. It almost looks like n is the hypotenuse but I can't see why if it is. The studyproblem is 3A


Homework Equations



https://acrobat.com/app.html#d=8LzuwGT8D*9EfoI9imptxg



The Attempt at a Solution


 
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I am sorry that the answer is in norwegian. It is the assignemnt oppgave 3. From the drawing they use snells law

n1sinx1=n2sinx2 og tan on the triangle with one angle at 90 degrees
 

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