What is the smallest possible value for an index of refraction? A) 0 B) 0.5 C) 1 D) just less than 1 E) (1/2)^1/2

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The index of refraction is defined as the ratio of the speed of light in a vacuum to the speed of light in a given medium. The speed of light in a vacuum is a constant, and the speed of light in any other medium will always be less than or equal to the speed of light in a vacuum. Therefore, the index of refraction will always be greater than or equal to 1. The smallest possible index of refraction is 1, which occurs when the speed of light in a medium is equal to the speed of light in a vacuum.

What Is the Smallest Possible Value for an Index of Refraction