What Is the Angle of Refraction for a Light Ray Incident on Glass at 30 Degrees?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on calculating the angle of refraction for a light ray incident on glass at 30 degrees. The index of refraction for glass is given as 1.47, and it is assumed that the light is transitioning from air, which has an index of refraction of approximately 1.00. The relevant equation used is n1 sin θ1 = n2 sin θ2, where θ1 is the incident angle and θ2 is the angle of refraction. There is some uncertainty regarding whether the angle is measured with respect to the perpendicular, which could affect the calculation. Clarification on the reference point for the angle would enhance understanding of the problem.
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Refraction -- A light ray is incedent on a block of glass at an angle of 30 degrees

Homework Statement


A light ray is incedent on a block of glass at an angle of 30 degrees,what is the angle of refraction.

Given: glass: 1.47
incident angle:30°

Homework Equations



π1 sin θ1 = π2 sin θ2

The Attempt at a Solution



I did: (1.47) sin (30)= π2 sin θ2
But I don't think this is the answer. I'm helping a friend but the problem don't say what the other medium is...
 
Last edited:
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Hello o0sunny0o,

Welcome to Physics Forums!
o0sunny0o said:

Homework Statement


A light ray is incedent on a block of glass at an angle of 30 degrees,what is the angle of refraction.

Given: glass: 1.47
incident angle:30°



Homework Equations



π1 sin θ1 = π2 sin θ2

The Attempt at a Solution



I did: (1.47) sin (30)= π2 sin θ2
But I don't think this is the answer. I'm helping a friend but the problem don't say what the other medium is...
I'm guessing that the original medium is air. The second medium is glass.

I'll also assume that the 30o angle is measured with respect to the perpendicular*, and measured outside the glass (i.e. in the air). If so, treat your
n1 sinθ1 = n2 sinθ2​
formula as
(Index of refraction of air)(sine of angle in air) = (index of refraction of glass)(sine of angle in glass)​

*The problem statement is is vague about what the angle is in reference to; perpendicular or parallel. I'm assuming it's in reference to the perpendicular, but that's just my assumption. I don't know for sure. A figure would certainly clear things up.
 


thank you for the answer^^
 

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