What Is the Minimum Index of Refraction for Total Internal Reflection?

AI Thread Summary
Total internal reflection occurs when light hits a boundary at a steep angle, causing it to bounce back into a medium instead of passing through. To achieve this, the index of refraction of the prism must be higher than that of the surrounding medium, typically air. The minimum index of refraction can be calculated using Snell's law, which relates the angles and indices of refraction of the two media. Understanding the concept of total internal reflection is crucial for solving the problem presented. Resources like Wikipedia can provide additional explanations and visual aids for clarity.
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Homework Statement


The prism is replaced by a new prism of the same shape, which is set in the same position. The light beam experiences total internal reflection at the right surface of this prism. What is the minimum possible index of refraction of this prism?


Homework Equations


Snell's law

nsinx=nsinx


The Attempt at a Solution


I think know how to do it, I just need to know what "total internal reflection" means. Please help
 
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Total internal reflection is what occurs when the light hits a medium boundry at such a wide angle the the light completely 'bounces' off the boundry, without crossing it.
For example, if the light hits a boundry of a perspex prism and air - and bounces back into the prism instead of proceeding out into the air.
If I remember correctly, the angle is hits the boundry at is the angle is bounces back at.
 
...so the angles in Snell's law would be the same?
 
Well I'm not sure - Because you only seem to have a fragment of the question there which refers to other sections of the question.
However, since you said you only needed to know what total internal reflection is - and my explanation doesn't work for you - have a lookhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Total_internal_reflection"
That should have a nice explanation and plenty of pictures to explain it to you.
 
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Thanks, I think I get it now
 

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