Diamond has an index of refraction of 2.419.What is the critical angle for internal reflection inside a diamond that is in air?
A)24.4°
B)48.8°
C)155°
D)131°

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The critical angle for internal reflection can be calculated using the formula $\theta_c = \sin^{-1}(\frac{n_2}{n_1})$, where $n_1$ is the refractive index of the denser medium (diamond in this case, 2.419) and $n_2$ is the refractive index of the less dense medium (air, approximately 1). Plugging in the values, we get $\theta_c = \sin^{-1}(\frac{1}{2.419})$, which calculates to approximately 24.4°.

Diamond Has an Index of Refraction of 2