Difference between revisions of "Total Internal Reflection"

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[[Main_Page#Basics of Light|Return to Basics of Light Menu]] | [[Dispersion and Scattering of Light|Next Topic]]
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== Dispersion ==
== Total Internal Reflection ==
[[Image:totalinternal_reflection.JPG|thumb|300px|]]
A critical concept in the case of optical fibers is the case total internal reflection. The bending of light as it goes into medium is related to the index of reflection of the materials. By Snell's law  when N1 > n2 then theta 1 is less than theta2. As you decrease the angle theta 1 and bring the light closer to parallel with the interface you reach a critical angle theta1c where there is total internal reflection.

Revision as of 12:55, 28 May 2009

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Total Internal Reflection

Totalinternal reflection.JPG

A critical concept in the case of optical fibers is the case total internal reflection. The bending of light as it goes into medium is related to the index of reflection of the materials. By Snell's law when N1 > n2 then theta 1 is less than theta2. As you decrease the angle theta 1 and bring the light closer to parallel with the interface you reach a critical angle theta1c where there is total internal reflection.