Critical Angle Calculator
Calculate the critical angle for total internal reflection: theta_c = arcsin(n2/n1).
Critical Angle
41.81 °
Critical Angle vs Denser Medium Refractive Index
Formula
## Critical Angle The critical angle is the angle of incidence above which total internal reflection occurs when light travels from a denser to a less dense medium. ### Formula **theta_c = arcsin(n2 / n1)** where n1 > n2. Above this angle, no light passes through the boundary.
Exemplo Resolvido
Light going from glass (n=1.5) to air (n=1).
- 01theta_c = arcsin(n2/n1)
- 02theta_c = arcsin(1/1.5)
- 03theta_c = arcsin(0.667)
- 04theta_c = 41.81°
Perguntas Frequentes
What is total internal reflection?
When light hits a boundary at an angle greater than the critical angle (going from denser to less dense medium), all light is reflected back with no transmission.
How do fiber optics work?
Light enters the fiber and hits the cladding boundary at angles exceeding the critical angle, so it bounces along the fiber with minimal loss.
Why do diamonds sparkle so much?
Diamond has a very high refractive index (2.42), giving a small critical angle (~24.4°). Light enters but undergoes many total internal reflections before exiting, creating brilliance.
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