The discussion revolves around the concept of total internal reflection in optics, specifically involving the calculation of the refractive index using the equation n1sin(θ1) = n2sin(θ2). The original poster expresses confusion regarding their calculations and seeks alternative methods to arrive at the expected result of 1.48.
Participants are actively questioning the original poster's setup and notation, seeking to clarify the problem's parameters. There is an exploration of the conditions under which total internal reflection occurs, with some guidance provided on the need for precise definitions and calculations.
The original poster mentions a practical experiment involving a semi-circular slab and the observation of light behavior, indicating a hands-on approach to understanding the phenomenon. There is an implication of uncertainty regarding the application of the equation and its relevance to their experimental results.
Cyosis said:Show us your work so far. Also the sine of an angle can't be equal to some degrees. Do you mean that \theta_1=44^\circ , \theta_2=48^\circ?
CompuChip said:What precisely do you want to find, n2?
What do you mean by "sin1Ө" and "sin2Ө"? Are they the sines of Ө and two times Ө, or the sines of two different angles (Ө1 and Ө2)? Also, the sine of an angle is not measured in degrees, so what are the last two lines? Did you mean that Ө is 44 and/or 48 degrees?