Index of Refraction Flashcards

Index of Refraction Overview

• The index of refraction quantifies how much light slows down when entering a medium compared to its speed in a vacuum.
• A lower index indicates light travels faster through that medium, while a higher index indicates slower light speed.

Common Index of Refraction Values

• Air: 1.00 - Standard reference point for measuring refractive indices.
• Aqueous Humor: 1.33 - Fluid in the eye, contributing to light refraction.
• Vitreous Humor: 1.33 - Another eye fluid, similar in refractive index to aqueous humor.
• Cornea: 1.37 - The outer layer of the eye, playing a significant role in light bending.
• Crystalline Lens: 1.42 - Flexible lens in the eye that adjusts focus.
• CR-39 Plastic: 1.49 - Common material used for prescription eyeglass lenses.
• Crown Glass: 1.52 - Traditional optical glass often used in lenses.
• Polycarbonate: 1.58 - Lightweight, impact-resistant material, frequently used for eyewear.
• High Index Plastics: 1.60 to 1.74 - Designed for thinner, lighter lenses, beneficial for stronger prescriptions.
• High Index Glass: 1.60 to 1.80 - Offers high refraction while maintaining clarity, suitable for specialized lenses.