Why Does the Index of Refraction Vary by Light Color in Different Mediums?

[member 529879]

Why is the index of refraction of one color of light different than the index of refraction for that same medium? Also why is some light reflected and some refracted when it comes in contact with a new medium?

 

[DaveC426913]

Those are pretty basic (and well documented) questions. How much reading have you done? Why don't you do some reading (even if it's Wiki) and, if there's anything you don't understand, ask some more specific questions.

 

[CheesyPeeps]

Here are two web pages on refraction that you might find worthwhile. If there's anything you don't understand after reading these, just ask and we'll be happy to help :)

Refraction and Reflection:
http://physics.bu.edu/~duffy/PY106/Reflection.html

Refraction of Different Wavelengths/Light Colors:
http://www.madsci.org/posts/archives/1999-04/924700249.Ph.r.html