Question

The indices of refraction for violet light (λ = 400 nm) and red light (λ = 700 nm) in diamond are 2.46 and 2.41, respectively. A ray of light traveling through air strikes the diamond surface at an angle of 51.0 ∘ to the normal.
Calculate the angular separation between these two colors of light in the refracted ray.

Answer 1

Answer:

0.42°

Explanation:

Using Snell's law of refraction which states that the ratio of the angle of sin of incidence to angle of sine of refraction is equal to a constant for a given pair of media. Mathematically,

Sin(i)/sin(r) = n

n is the refractive index of the medium

FOR VIOLET LIGHT:

n = 2.46

i = 51°

r = ?

To get r, we will use the Snell's law formula.

2.46 = sin51°/sinr

Sinr = sin51°/2.46

Sinr = 0.316

r = sin^-1(0.316)

rv = 18.42°

FOR RED LIGHT:

n = 2.41

i = 51°

r = ?

To get r, we will use the Snell's law formula.

2.41 = sin51°/sinr

Sinr = sin51°/2.41

Sinr = 0.323

r = sin^-1(0.323)

rd = 18.84°

The angular separation between these two colors of light in the refracted ray will be the difference between there angle of refraction.

Angular separation = rd - rv

= 18.84° - 18.42°

= 0.42°