What is the need to find the speed of light ?

AI Thread Summary
Understanding the speed of light in specific media, such as gelatin, is crucial for determining the refractive index and optical density, which are essential for applications in optics and lens design. Knowing light's speed in various materials helps predict refraction angles, aiding in the creation of effective lenses. The discussion also highlights the importance of curiosity in physics, suggesting that the pursuit of knowledge doesn't always require a practical application. However, for those seeking careers in physics, providing a rationale for research can be essential for securing funding. Ultimately, the exploration of light's behavior in different media enhances our foundational understanding of physics.
aaeushsingh
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What is the need to find the speed of light in a specific medium ?
How will knowing that light travels at 0.723c in gelatin going to help us ?
not just gelatin but any medium in general
 
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To find the refractive index?
To judge the optical density?
 
aaeushsingh said:
What is the need to find the speed of light in a specific medium ?
How will knowing that light travels at 0.723c in gelatin going to help us ?
not just gelatin but any medium in general
Who says there IS a need? If you find something discussing finding the speed of light in a medium that same discussion is likely to include some indication of WHY there is a usefulness to finding it.

I guess basically what I'm asking is, what is the point of your question?
 
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if you are interested in physics you want to determine as much as possible.
What is the charge on an electron? Are they all the same?
What is the force between 2 masses a certain distance apart
These, and more, are the basis of physics knowledge
Keep looking and hope that you find an anomaly. Then you are a star
 
And, why does there need to be a need. Why can't it just be a matter of wanting to know?
 
UncertaintyAjay said:
And, why does there need to be a need. Why can't it just be a matter of wanting to know?

Try to get funding with that kind of a reason.

Zz.
 
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Haha. Luckily I'm too young for that. But yeah, i suppose if i want a career in physics, I'll need to think of good reasons.
 
One obvious reason is to find out the refraction angles at the surface. The index of refraction is the most important parameter in making a lens.
 

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