Chapter 26, Problem 106GP

Predict/Calculate A beam of light enters the sloping side of a 45°-90°-45° glass prism with an index of refraction n = 1.66 The situation is similar to that shown in Figure 26-68 except that the angle of incidence of the incoming beam can be varied, (a) Find the angle of incidence for which the reflection on the vertical side of the prism exactly satisfies the condition for total internal reflection. (b) If the angle of incidence is increased is the reflection at the vertical surface still total? Explain. (c) What is the minimum value of n such that a horizontal beam like that in Figure 26-68 undergoes total internal reflection at the vertical side of the prism?