Which Ray Will Reach the Second Plane First?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the travel paths of two light rays, P and Q, that start from the same plane and fall on another parallel plane. Ray P travels through a medium with a higher refractive index and refracts, while Ray Q travels through vacuum/air. The question is which one will reach the second plane first. By applying Snell's law and finding the path length and transit time, it is determined that P will always be slower than Q, even at an angle of 30 degrees.
  • #1
AudioFlux
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In the diagram, there are two light rays that start from the same plane and fall on another plane which is parallel to the first one. The light ray P goes through a medium of higher refractive index than vacuum/air and refracts. So, which one of them will reach the second plane first? Ray P will travel a shorter distance compared to Q but will be slower than Q.
 

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  • #2
Apply Snell's law to find the path length. Then find the transit time. Just go through the exercise.
You could start with A=0...
 
  • #3
sophiecentaur said:
Apply Snell's law to find the path length. Then find the transit time. Just go through the exercise.
You could start with A=0...

I used the refractive medium as a glass slab, and used 30 deg as angle A(see the attachment).

Conclusion: P is slower than Q at 30 deg.

I think P will always be slower than Q.
 

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FAQ: Which Ray Will Reach the Second Plane First?

What is the concept behind "Which Ray Will Reach the Second Plane First?"

The concept is based on the principle of light rays traveling at different speeds through different mediums. In this case, two light rays are traveling through different mediums and the question is which one will reach the second plane first.

How does the speed of light differ in different mediums?

The speed of light is constant in a vacuum, but it slows down when traveling through denser mediums such as air, water, or glass. This is due to the interaction of light with the particles in the medium.

What factors affect the speed of light in a medium?

The speed of light in a medium is affected by the density, temperature, and composition of the medium. Generally, the denser the medium, the slower the speed of light.

Can both light rays reach the second plane at the same time?

No, it is highly unlikely that both light rays will reach the second plane at the same time. Since they are traveling through different mediums, their speeds will differ, and one will reach the second plane first.

How is this question relevant in scientific research?

This question is relevant in understanding the behavior of light and how it interacts with different mediums. It also has applications in areas such as optics, telecommunications, and astronomy. It helps scientists to better understand the nature of light and its properties.

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