- #1
michaelw
- 80
- 0
How will it bend? Or will it not bend at all?
In summary, the conversation is discussing Snell's Law and how it applies to the bending of light when it passes through different mediums. It is mentioned that the correct equation for Snell's Law is n_{1} sin(\theta_1) = n_{2} sin(\theta_2) and that the angle theta may be affected by the isotropy of the medium.
- #2
Brad Barker
- 429
- 0
michaelw said:
what would snell's law imply?
- #3
michaelw
- 80
- 0
i don't know :/
lets say it goes from glass to air
1.5 = sin(theta)
but what does that say about theta?
lets say it goes from glass to air
1.5 = sin(theta)
but what does that say about theta?
- #4
Lyuokdea
- 154
- 0
Hint, the correct equation for Snell's Law is:
[tex] n_{1} sin(\theta_1) = n_{2} sin(\theta_2) [/tex]
Where [itex]\theta_1[/itex] and [itex]\theta_2[/itex] are the angle from the normal.
~Lyuokdea
[tex] n_{1} sin(\theta_1) = n_{2} sin(\theta_2) [/tex]
Where [itex]\theta_1[/itex] and [itex]\theta_2[/itex] are the angle from the normal.
~Lyuokdea
- #5
James R
Science Advisor
Homework Helper
Gold Member
- 601
- 15
michaelw:
Looks like you should have a sin(zero) factor in there.
Looks like you should have a sin(zero) factor in there.
- #6
Galileo
Science Advisor
Homework Helper
- 1,995
- 7
From a physical point of view. If the medium is isotropic, why would the light bend in any particular preferred direction? Suppose it bend to the right from on standpoint. If you stand on the other side of the medium it would turn left while the physical situation is identical.
FAQ: If light enters a new medium perpendicularly
What happens to light when it enters a new medium perpendicularly?
When light enters a new medium perpendicularly, it continues to travel in a straight line through the medium, but its speed and direction may change depending on the properties of the medium.
How does the speed of light change when it enters a new medium perpendicularly?
The speed of light decreases when it enters a new medium perpendicularly, as different materials have different refractive indices, which affect the speed of light.
What is the angle of refraction when light enters a new medium perpendicularly?
When light enters a new medium perpendicularly, the angle of refraction is 0 degrees, meaning the light continues to travel in a straight line through the medium without bending.
Can light change direction when it enters a new medium perpendicularly?
No, light does not change direction when entering a new medium perpendicularly. It continues to travel in a straight line, but its speed may change.
What factors affect the speed and direction of light when it enters a new medium perpendicularly?
The speed and direction of light when it enters a new medium perpendicularly are affected by the refractive index of the medium, as well as the wavelength and frequency of the light.