Solve Snell's Law Problem: 2.1m Deep Pool

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a Snell's Law problem involving a flashlight beam directed into a 2.1m deep pool. The user initially calculated the angles using the index of refraction values of air (1.0) and water (1.33) but encountered an error in their final distance calculation. After correcting their approach, they determined the correct distance where the light spot hits the bottom of the pool to be 4.86m from the edge. This highlights the importance of accurately incorporating all variables in geometric optics problems.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Snell's Law and refraction
  • Familiarity with trigonometric functions (sine, tangent)
  • Ability to apply the Pythagorean theorem in geometric contexts
  • Proficiency in using a scientific calculator in degree mode
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  • Review the principles of Snell's Law and its applications in optics
  • Practice solving problems involving refraction in different mediums
  • Learn about the derivation and application of the Pythagorean theorem in real-world scenarios
  • Explore advanced topics in geometric optics, such as total internal reflection
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on optics, as well as educators looking for practical examples of Snell's Law applications.

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Homework Statement


In searching the bottom of a pool at night, a watchman shines a narrow beam of light from his flashlight, h = 1.6 m above the water level, onto the surface of the water at a point L = 3.0 m from his foot at the edge of the pool (Fig. 23-52). Where does the spot of light hit the bottom of the pool, relative to the edge, if the pool is 2.1 m deep?

Homework Equations


[tex]n_{{1}}\sin \left( \theta_{{1}} \right) =n_{{2}}\sin \left( \theta_{{2<br /> }} \right)[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution



This problem seems straightforward, but the answer I am getting is incorrect according to my online homework submissions. I am in degree mode on my calculator. :) First I used the pythag theorem to get the hypotenuse of the first triangle and the angle with the water, which is 28.07. I subtracted this from 90 to get the angle from the normal line. This gives me 61.928 degrees. I am using 1 as the index of refraction of air and 1.33 for water, giving me [tex]0.7857161968= 1.33\,\sin \left( \theta_{{2}} \right)[/tex].
Solving this gives me [tex]\theta_{{2}}= 41.561[/tex] The depth of the pool was 2.1m. Now I just used Tan(41.561)=L/2.1 andsolved for L to get 1.86, which shows as incorrect. Can anyone see where I went wrong, or is my entire approach off?
 
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Oops. Duh, I forgot to add the original L. L=4.86. That was a waste of time but I'll leave it here just in case someone wants to see...
 

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