State the formula linking critical angle and refractive index. The critical angle of the cold air at the boundary is 88.500°. Calculate the refractive index of the cold air. Give y... State the formula linking critical angle and refractive index. The critical angle of the cold air at the boundary is 88.500°. Calculate the refractive index of the cold air. Give your answer to 5 significant figures.
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the formula that links critical angle and refractive index, followed by the calculation of the refractive index based on a given critical angle, specifically related to atmospheric optics and mirages.
Answer
1.00003
The refractive index of the cold air is approximately 1.00003.
Answer for screen readers
The refractive index of the cold air is approximately 1.00003.
More Information
The formula n = 1 / sin(C) is derived from Snell's Law and describes the relationship between the critical angle and the refractive index when moving from a medium to air.
Tips
Ensure the calculator is set to the correct mode (degrees) when calculating the sine of the angle.
Sources
AI-generated content may contain errors. Please verify critical information
