Total internal reflection: An optic fiber is made of clear plastic with index of refraction of 1.50, surrounded by air. For what angles of incidence θ will light remain within the plastic fiber?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Total internal reflection occurs when the angle of incidence is greater than the critical angle. The critical angle can be calculated using the formula: sin(θc) = n2/n1, where n2 is the refractive index of air (1.0) and n1 is the refractive index of the plastic (1.50). The critical angle θc is approximately 41.8°, so θ must be greater than 41.8° for total internal reflection.

Total Internal Reflection: an Optic Fiber Is Made of Clear