Single correct option
Consider the following statements:
1. Total internal reflection can occur when light travels from a denser to a rarer medium.
2. For total internal reflection the angle of incidence must be greater than the critical angle.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. Total internal reflection can occur when light travels from a denser to a rarer medium.
2. For total internal reflection the angle of incidence must be greater than the critical angle.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A. 1 only
- B. 2 only
- C. Both 1 and 2
- D. Neither 1 nor 2
Show answer and solution
Answer: (C) Both 1 and 2
Total internal reflection needs light to go from a medium of higher refractive index to one of lower index, and the angle of incidence in the denser medium must exceed the critical angle. Both conditions are stated correctly. Optical fibres, diamond's brilliance and mirages rely on this effect. Remember that both conditions must hold together; if the angle is below the critical angle, light is partly refracted out.
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