When will I get total reflection?

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Homework Statement




http://i.imgur.com/JElvT.png

Multiple-choice physics problem on a laser pointer striking a horizontal surface through a glass plate, with two diagrams and the answer options b) theta = 48.2 degrees and c) a spot is formed for all theta less than 90 degrees; answer C is marked.



Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



When will I get total reflection? sin(theta)>1?
 
Attachments
  • Multiple-choice physics question with two diagrams: a laser pointer aimed at a horizontal surface at angle theta from vertical, and a laser passing through a glass plate of thickness d above the surface, with distance D labelled. Answer choices b and c are shown.
    12.png
    62.8 KB · Views: 461

Discussion

Does the direction of the light ray change when it traverses a plan-parallel slab?

ehild
 
And how much does it change? Can you follow the ray by applying Snell's Law?

ehild
 

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