Total internal reflection mirror?

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Total internal reflection (TIR) can reflect nearly 100% of light when conditions meet the critical angle, which is 45 degrees in this scenario. The discussion raises a question about using a cone-shaped retro-reflector to achieve TIR, suggesting that it might work theoretically, but practical applications are rare. The consensus indicates that traditional retro-reflectors are typically prism-shaped due to the challenges in creating perfect round surfaces from crystal materials. There is acknowledgment of attenuation loss in real-world applications, which may affect the total reflection. The conversation highlights the complexities of optical design and the limitations of current materials in achieving TIR with non-prism shapes.
Smacal1072
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Hi all,

From what I understand, total internal reflection reflect 100% of light. Suppose you had a transparent material with a critical angle of 45 degrees. Now say you had a cone with a 45 degree angle, and you shined monochromatic light in through the base. Would 100% be reflected (minus attenuation loss)?

Thanks
 
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From what I remember from my course in optics, I'd say yes, but I must admit I have never seen or heard about a cone-shaped retro-reflector; they are usually always prisms. I suspect that the reason TIR reflectors aren't cone-shaped has to do with difficulty of getting a perfect round surface of a crystal material that really is best for flat surfaces.
 

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