Refractive index
Refractive Index
The Refractive Index (pronunciation: /rɪˈfræktɪv ˈɪndɛks/), also known as Index of Refraction, is a dimensionless number that describes how light, or any other radiation, propagates through a particular medium. The term originates from the Latin words 'refringere' meaning 'to break up' and 'index' meaning 'indicator'.
Definition
The refractive index of a medium is defined as the speed of light in vacuum divided by the speed of light in the medium. It is usually denoted by the letter n.
Mathematical Representation
The refractive index can be represented mathematically as:
n = c/v
where:
- n is the refractive index
- c is the speed of light in vacuum
- v is the speed of light in the medium
Related Terms
- Snell's Law: This law describes the relationship between the angles of incidence and refraction, when referring to light or other waves passing through a boundary between two different isotropic media.
- Total Internal Reflection: This is a phenomenon which occurs when a propagating wave strikes a medium boundary at an angle larger than a particular critical angle with respect to the normal to the surface.
- Optical Density: This is a measure of the refracting power of a medium. It is equal to the refractive index minus one.
See Also
References
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Refractive index
- Wikipedia's article - Refractive index
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