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Ray Optics: Refraction and Lenses

Refraction and Lenses: Audio Guided Solution

Problem Set RL7, Question 1:

Light travels at a speed of 1.48x108 m/s in an unknown material. A ray of light entering the material from air is observed to refract at an angle of refraction of 23.6°. What was the angle of incidence?



 

Audio Guided Solution




Habits of an Effective Problem Solver

  • Read the problem carefully and develop a mental picture of the physical situation. If necessary, sketch a simple diagram of the physical situation to help you visualize it.
  • Identify the known and unknown quantities in an organized manner. Equate given values to the symbols used to represent the corresponding quantity - e.g., do = 24.2 cm; di= 16.8 cm; f = ???.
  • Use physics formulas and conceptual reasoning to plot a strategy for solving for the unknown quantity.
  • Identify the appropriate formula(s) to use.
  • Perform substitutions and algebraic manipulations in order to solve for the unknown quantity.


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