1. What is the Angle of Refraction?

The angle of refraction describes how light bends when passing from one medium to another with different refractive indices. The calculation accounts for temperature-dependent changes in refractive indices.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the refraction equation:

Where:

• \( r \) — Angle of refraction (degrees)
• \( n_1(T) \) — Refractive index of first medium at temperature T
• \( n_2(T) \) — Refractive index of second medium at temperature T
• \( i \) — Angle of incidence (degrees)
• \( T \) — Temperature (°C)

Explanation: The equation shows how light bends according to Snell's Law, with temperature-dependent refractive indices.

3. Importance of Temperature Consideration

Details: Refractive indices of materials change with temperature, affecting the precise angle of refraction. This is particularly important in optical engineering and precision measurements.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the refractive indices (n₁ and n₂) at the given temperature, the angle of incidence (0-90 degrees), and the temperature. All values must be valid.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why does temperature affect refraction?
A: Temperature changes the density of materials, which alters their refractive indices.

Q2: What are typical refractive index values?
A: Air: ~1.0003, Water: ~1.33, Glass: 1.5-1.9. All vary with temperature and wavelength.

Q3: What's the critical angle?
A: When n₁ > n₂, the maximum angle of incidence before total internal reflection occurs.

Q4: How does wavelength affect this?
A: Refractive indices are wavelength-dependent (dispersion), but this calculator assumes monochromatic light.

Q5: Can this calculate refraction through multiple layers?
A: No, this calculates single-interface refraction only. Multiple layers require sequential calculations.