Definition: Snell's Law relates the angles of incidence and refraction (transmission) when light passes between two media with different refractive indices, allowing calculation of either refractive index:
Variables:
Details: Snell's Law is fundamental in optics and physics for understanding and predicting the behavior of light as it travels between different media, used in designing lenses, prisms, and optical devices.
Tips: Select whether to calculate \( n_1 \) or \( n_2 \), then enter the known refractive index, the angle of incidence, and the angle of transmission with their units (degrees or radians). The input field for the refractive index being calculated will be disabled (grayed out). Click "Calculate" to get the unknown refractive index.
Q1: What is Snell's Law?
A: Snell's Law describes the relationship between the angles of incidence and refraction when light passes between two media with different refractive indices.
Q2: What is the refractive index?
A: The refractive index (\( n \)) is a dimensionless number that describes how much light slows down and bends in a medium compared to a vacuum.
Q3: What is the angle of incidence?
A: The angle of incidence (\( \theta_i \)) is the angle between the incoming light ray and the normal (perpendicular) to the surface at the point of incidence.
Q4: What is the angle of transmission?
A: The angle of transmission (\( \theta_t \)) is the angle between the refracted light ray and the normal (perpendicular) to the surface at the point of refraction.
Q5: How accurate is this calculator?
A: The calculator is accurate based on Snell's Law and the input values, assuming ideal conditions. Real-world factors like dispersion or surface imperfections may introduce variations.