Index of Refraction definitions Flashcards
Index of Refraction definitions
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Index of Refraction
A ratio of the speed of light in a vacuum to the speed of light in a material. Speed of Light
The constant speed at which light travels in a vacuum, approximately 3 x 10^8 m/s. Vacuum
A space devoid of matter where light travels at its maximum speed. Material
Any substance through which light travels slower than in a vacuum. Water
A material with an index of refraction of 1.33, where light travels at 2.25 x 10^8 m/s. Air
A common material with an index of refraction very close to 1, often approximated as 1. Numerator
The top part of a fraction, representing the speed of light in a vacuum in the index of refraction. Denominator
The bottom part of a fraction, representing the speed of light in a material in the index of refraction. Constant
A value that does not change, such as the speed of light in a vacuum. Table
A reference in textbooks listing indices of refraction for various materials.
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