Total internal reflection for a long time

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of total internal reflection in a square prism with a certain index of refraction and surrounded by a substance with the same index of refraction. This leads to a continuous reflection of light rays within the prism until all the light is absorbed. The question is raised about whether light entering the prism in a loop will show interference patterns, and it is suggested that it may depend on the coherence of the incident light source. The term "Whispering Gallery modes" is also mentioned.
  • #1
user3
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Imagine a square prism made from some material with such an index of refraction and surrounded by a substance of such index of refraction so that light rays entering the prism and hitting one of the internal sides of the prism at an angle of incidence 45° experience total internal reflection. And since the internally reflected light rays reflect at an angle of also 45°, and the prism is a square one (90°) ,they also get internally reflected at the adjacent side of the square prism. And this goes on until all the light is slowly absorbed by the material of the prism.I know it's the same idea as the optical fibers, but I am wondering what we would see in such a prism. Will light going in a loop show interference patterns? and if it doesn't, How bright are the trapped rays going to be combined before the first of them is absorbed ?
 
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  • #3
Please note that in my question i assume the incident ray to be from a monochromatic source with great enough coherent time (say a very good laser ).
 
  • #4
Then yes you might get interference.
 
  • #5
Google "Whispering Gallery modes".

Claude.
 
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FAQ: Total internal reflection for a long time

1. What is total internal reflection for a long time?

Total internal reflection for a long time refers to the phenomenon where light rays remain within a medium for an extended period of time due to continuous total internal reflection at the boundary of the medium.

2. How does total internal reflection for a long time occur?

Total internal reflection for a long time occurs when a light ray travels from a medium with a higher refractive index to a medium with a lower refractive index at an angle greater than the critical angle, causing the light to reflect back into the higher refractive index medium.

3. What factors affect total internal reflection for a long time?

The main factors affecting total internal reflection for a long time are the refractive indices of the two media, the angle of incidence, and the surface roughness of the boundary between the two media.

4. What are some real-world applications of total internal reflection for a long time?

Total internal reflection for a long time has various applications, including fiber optics communication, optical fibers in medical imaging and endoscopy, and optical sensors for detecting changes in refractive index.

5. Are there any limitations to total internal reflection for a long time?

Yes, total internal reflection for a long time can only occur when light travels from a medium with a higher refractive index to a medium with a lower refractive index. It also requires a smooth and clean boundary between the two media for optimal reflection.

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