Trace the path of the light ray and find angle of refraction

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the refraction of light through an equiangular glass prism with a refractive index of 1.3. The angle of incidence is 33°, resulting in an angle of refraction at the first surface calculated to be 24.7685°. The challenge arises in determining the angle of incidence at the second surface, which is not simply the angle of refraction from the first surface due to the geometry of the prism. A diagram is recommended for clarity in visualizing the angles involved.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Snell's Law (n1sin(theta1) = n2sin(theta2))
  • Knowledge of geometric properties of equiangular prisms
  • Basic trigonometry for angle calculations
  • Familiarity with light refraction concepts
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of Snell's Law in multiple media transitions
  • Learn how to draw ray diagrams for light refraction
  • Explore the properties of equiangular prisms in optics
  • Investigate the effects of varying angles of incidence on refraction
USEFUL FOR

Students studying optics, physics educators, and anyone interested in understanding light behavior in prisms and refraction phenomena.

Kris1120
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Homework Statement



A ray of light strikes the midpoint of one
face of an equiangular (60◦, 60◦, 60◦) glass
prism (n = 1.3) at an angle of incidence of
33◦.
a.Trace the path of the light ray through the
glass, and find the angle of refraction at the
first surface.
b.Find the angle of incidence at the second
surface.
Answer in units of ◦
c.Find the angle of refraction at the second
surface.
Answer in units of ◦.

Homework Equations



n1sin(theta1) = n2sin(theta2)

The Attempt at a Solution



So I have part a correct which is 24.7685 degrees. I used the equation to solve for theta2. However I cannot get b because my reasoning is that the angle of refraction in part a is the angle of incidence in part b and this is obviously not right. I do not know where to go from here.
 
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Maybe draw a diagram and remember the second surface is at a 60° angle to the first.
 

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