What Is the Snell Law, Brewster Angle & Critical Angle Calculator?
Snell law describes the relationship between angles of incidence and refraction for light passing through an interface between two isotropic media.
How Does the Snell Law, Brewster Angle & Critical Angle Calculator Work?
Applies Snell law to compute refracted angle θ₂.
Checks if sin(θ₂) > 1, signaling total internal reflection.
Computes Brewster polarizing angle θ_B = arctan(n₂ / n₁).
Snell Law, Brewster Angle & Critical Angle Calculator Formula & Variables
The core mathematical equation utilized by this calculator is expressed as:
n₁·sin(θ₁) = n₂·sin(θ₂), θ_B = arctan(n₂ / n₁), θ_c = arcsin(n₂ / n₁)
Snell refraction law combined with Brewster polarization and total internal reflection criteria.
How to Use the Snell Law, Brewster Angle & Critical Angle Calculator
- Enter refractive indices n₁ and n₂.
- Specify incident angle in degrees.
Step-by-Step Example Calculation
Glass-to-Air Optical Boundary
Input Values:
n1:1.5
n2:1
incidentAngle:30
Worked Steps: Light passing from glass into air below the 41.8° critical angle.
Understanding Your Result
Displays refracted angle or announces Total Internal Reflection.
Summary reports critical and Brewster angles.
Factors That Affect the Result
- Refractive index ratio n₁/n₂.
When Should You Use This Calculator?
- Lens design, polarizing prism design, and optical sensor engineering.
Assumptions & Limitations
- Assumes non-magnetic, non-absorbing dielectric media.
Frequently Asked Questions
Calculation Accuracy & Reference Note
Classical optics formulation.