Problems on refractive index
Speed of light in a vacuum = 3 x 108 m/s
Q1 For glass the angle of incidence is 45o and the angle of
refraction is 26.5o. Calculate the refractive index.
Q2 If the angle of refraction for polycarbonate is 30o and the
refractive index is 1.59, calculate the angle of incidence.
Q3 If the angle of incidence for perspex is 30o and the
refractive index is 1.48, calculate the angle of refraction.
Material
Polypropylene
Soda lime glass
Water
Diamond
Refractive index
1.49
1.59
1.38
2.40
Density kg/m3
900
2500
1000
3510
Q4 Why does light slow down when it passes from air into
another medium?
Q5 What happens to the speed when the light leaves the
material?
Q6
Calculate the speed of light in each of the four materials.
Q7 Suggest why diamond is a popular choice as a precious stone.
Hint – think about what would happen to a light ray entering a
diamond crystal