What is the index of refraction of quartz at a wavelength of 355 nm?

Why is the index of refraction important in determining the behavior of light in different materials?

The index of refraction of a material is crucial because it helps determine how light behaves when passing through the material. It is defined as the ratio of the speed of light in a vacuum to the speed of light in the material. This ratio affects the angle at which the light is bent, or refracted, as it enters the material, impacting the overall path and intensity of the light.

Calculating the index of refraction of quartz at a wavelength of 355 nm

A light beam travels at 1.94×10^8 m/s in quartz, and the wavelength of the light in quartz is 355 nm (3.55×10^-7 m). To determine the index of refraction of quartz at this wavelength, we can utilize the formula:

n = c / v

Where: n = index of refraction c = speed of light in a vacuum (approximately 3.00×10^8 m/s) v = speed of light in quartz (1.94×10^8 m/s)

Substitute the given values into the formula:

n = 3.00×10^8 / 1.94×10^8 = 1.55

Therefore, the index of refraction of quartz at a wavelength of 355 nm is approximately 1.55.