The discussion centers on the relationship between the incidence angle and the angle of refraction in optics, specifically using Snell's Law, defined as n1 * sin(a) = n2 * sin(b). When the incidence angle (a) equals the angle of refraction (b), the scenario described leads to the conclusion that both angles can be zero radians, resulting in no refraction occurring. This situation is distinct from the critical angle, which occurs at a specific incidence angle where total internal reflection happens.
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when b= pi/2 rad. It is the limit angle for a. sina=n2/n1blue_leaf77 said:At the interface of two different media, there is a certain angle of incidence where the incident ray just passes straight through. What is this angle?
No, that corresponds to critical angle refraction. It very simple, you have Snell's law ##n_1 \sin a = n_2 \sin b##. Try to find a trivial angle ##a=b## which will make the left and right hand side of Snell's law equal irrespective of the refractive indices.zade70 said:when b= pi/2 rad. It is the limit angle for a. sina=n2/n1
a=b=0 rad? 0=0blue_leaf77 said:No, that corresponds to critical angle refraction. It very simple, you have Snell's law ##n_1 \sin a = n_2 \sin b##. Try to find a trivial angle ##a=b## which will make the left and right hand side of Snell's law equal irrespective of the refractive indices.