Question

Why is the refractive index of a medium greater than 1?

Answer 1

The Law of Refraction

Because refractive index(n) is nothing but the ratio of speed of light in vacuum(c) to the speed of light in that medium(v). n = c/v ; c is always greater than v . So numerator is always greater than denominator that's why n is always greater and equal to 1.

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Answer 2

Answer:

Explanation:

{μv} vacuum = {μv} medium

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⇒μ medium = speed of light in given medium/speed of light in vacuum

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Here refractive index of medium is inversely proportional to speed of light in the medium. As refractive index of vacuum is 1, speed of light is always greater in vacuum as compared to transparent medium. Hence, refractive index of transparent medium is always greater than one.