Question

High precision optical instruments uses prisms instead of mirror to reflect light.

1. Name the phenomena used for reflecting light using prism.

2. What is the advantage of using prism instead of mirror for reflecting light?

3. The critical angle of water is 52°.

Calculate the refractive index of water.

Answer 1

1. Total internal reflection

2. Prism can be used for total internal reflection. Mirrors can’t be used for total internal reflection.

3. \(\frac{1}{sin c}\) = \(\frac{1}{sin52°}=\frac{1}{0.7880}\)

n = 1.26.