Snell's Law

physics simulation

Instructions: Drag the flashlight around to change its position and angle. Use the sliders to control the index of refraction in the two regions.
Explanation: Snell's Law describes how the angle of refraction depends on the change in index of refraction between two materials. The angles of the raw follow the well known law $$n_1\sin\theta_1=n_2\sin\theta_2$$. This simulation shows the path a light ray would take based on the index of refraction of the two materials. Total internal reflection also occurs when the angle of incidence is too small.

Link to stand-alone sim: Here is a link to view the sim on its own, with no distractions.

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Tags:

light rays
snells law
total internal reflection

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