When light is totally polarized by reflection at an interface between two materials where the index of refraction for the incident medium is $n_{1}$ and for the other is $n_{2}$, the incident angle is given by $\theta=\tan ^{-1}\left(n_{2} / n_{1}\right)$. This equation holds A) only when $n_{2}n_{1}$. C) for all values of $n_{1}$ and $n_{2}$. D) only when $n_{2}n_{1}+1$. E) only when $n_{1}n_{2}$.

Question

When light is totally polarized by reflection at an interface between two materials where the index of refraction for the incident medium is $n_{1}$ and for the other is $n_{2}$, the incident angle is given by $\theta=\tan ^{-1}\left(n_{2} / n_{1}\right)$. This equation holds
A) only when $n_{2}<n_{1}+1$.
B) only when $n_{2}>n_{1}$.
C) for all values of $n_{1}$ and $n_{2}$.
D) only when $n_{2}>n_{1}+1$.
E) only when $n_{1}>n_{2}$.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The equation for the angle of incidence at which light is totally polarized by reflection, given by $\theta=\tan^{-1}(n_{2}/n_{1})$, does not have inherent restrictions on the values of $n_{1}$ and $n_{2}$ beyond the physical requirement that they be positive. This equation is derived from Brewster's law and applies for all values of $n_{1}$ and $n_{2}$, assuming the indices of refraction are positive and represent real materials.

When Light Is Totally Polarized by Reflection at an Interface n1n_{1}n1​

When Light Is Totally Polarized by Reflection at an Interface $n_{1}$