What is Snell's Law and How is it Used?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around Snell's Law, which describes the relationship between the angles of incidence and refraction when light passes through different media. Participants are exploring the definition and formal statement of this law, as well as its applications.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning whether Snell's Law has a formal written statement beyond its mathematical representation. There is also a discussion about the adequacy of providing the equation as a definition of the law.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with participants providing insights into the nature of Snell's Law and its expression. Some have suggested that the equation itself suffices as a statement of the law, while others are seeking a more formal articulation.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of textbooks indicating that the equation represents the law, which raises questions about the completeness of this representation. Participants are navigating the nuances of defining physical laws in both mathematical and verbal forms.

grscott_2000
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I have been asked to "state snells law"

I know the equation is

sin i / sin r = n2/n1

And I know how to use it...

But is there a written law for this that I'm missing? (As in Newtons third law of motion states that...?)
 
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well explain in words what is happening when you use Snells law. And maybe some applications of it.
 
I don't know the full context of your question, but why wouldn't giving an equation be a form of "stating" a physical law? Assuming that you've defined the symbols used.
 
I was just wondering if there was a formal statement that I was missing here. My textbooks indicate that the equation is the law, but you're right, there's nothing wrong with giving it in that form. As usual, many thanks.
 

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