Question

The refractive index of a medium x with respect to a medium y is 2/3 and the refractive index of medium y with respect to medium z is 4/3. Find the refractive index of medium z with respect to medium x. If the speed of light in medium x is 3 x 10^5 m/s. Calculate the speed of light in medium y.

Answer 1

The refractive index of Z with respect to X is 9 ÷ 8.

Explanation:

• Calculation angles are measure between the rays and normal and are dependent in the phenomenon of refraction.
• The change in direction of a ray is caused by the change in speed of the light.
• Refractive Index from medium Z with respect to X.

X  ÷ Y= 2 ÷ 3

Y ÷ Z = 4 ÷ 3

X ÷ Y x Y = 2 ÷ 3 x 4 ÷ 3

X ÷ Z = 8  ÷ 9

Z ÷ X =  9 ÷ 8

Hence the refractive index of Z with respect to X is 9 ÷ 8