Total Internal Reflection: Total internal reflection is a phenomenon that occurs when light travels from a medium of higher refractive index to a medium of lower refractive index, and the angle of incidence is greater than the critical angle. When this happens, all of the light is reflected back into the higher refractive index medium, and none of it is transmitted into the lower refractive index medium.

The critical angle is the angle of incidence at which the refracted angle becomes 90 degrees. At this angle, the refracted light ray travels along the boundary between the two media. If the angle of incidence is greater than the critical angle, then no refraction occurs, and all of the light is reflected back into the higher refractive index medium.

Applications of Total Internal Reflection

It has several practical applications in optics and technology. Here are a few examples:

• Optical fibers: It is used in the design of optical fibers, which are used to transmit light signals over long distances for telecommunications and internet data transmission. The principle of total internal reflection is used to keep the light inside the fiber, which minimizes the loss of signal strength.
• Prism: It is also used in prisms, which are used in scientific experiments and optical devices such as binoculars and periscopes. Prisms are designed to reflect light at specific angles, which is achieved through total internal reflection.
• Diamond cutting: The critical angle of diamonds is quite low, which means that when light enters a diamond from air at an angle greater than the critical angle, total internal reflection occurs. This property of diamonds is used in diamond cutting and polishing, where light is used to help determine the optimal cut of the diamond.
• Mirrors: It is used in the design of mirrors, which are made of a highly reflective material such as metal. When light enters a mirror at an angle greater than the critical angle, it undergoes total internal reflection and is reflected back, creating a clear and sharp reflection.

Formula of Total Internal Reflection

Notations Used In The Total Internal Reflection Formula And Critical Angle:

• r is the angle of refraction
• i is the angle of incidence
• n₁ is the refractive index in medium 1
• n₂ is the refractive index in medium 2
• θ is the critical angle

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By Team Learning Mantras