Exam-style question
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If the refractive index of a material is 1.6, what is the critical angle for light transitioning from this material to air?.
- A.38.7°
- B.41.8°
- C.45.0°
- D.51.3°
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- 38.7°
Explanation
Why this works
The critical angle is calculated using the formula: critical angle = sin⁻¹(1/n). For n = 1.6, we find sin⁻¹(1/1.6) = 38.7°.
This angle indicates the maximum angle of incidence for total internal reflection.
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