The refractive index of air with respect to glass is expressed as gμa = sin i / sin r
The refractive index of air with respect to glass is expressed as gμa = sin i / sin r

(a) Write down a similar expression for aμin terms of angle i and r.

(b) If angle r = 900, what is the corresponding angle i called?

(c) What is the physical significance of the angle i and part (b)?

Solution:

(a) aμg = sin r / sin i

(b) If the refractive angle r = 90 degrees, the corresponding angle of incidence I will be equal to the critical angle.

(c) If the angle of incidence is greater than the value of I determined in part, total internal reflection occurs (b)