prism Flashcards
(6 cards)
What is a prism in optics?
A prism is a transparent optical element with two flat, polished surfaces that are inclined at an angle to each other, causing light to deviate.
How does a prism affect light?
A prism bends light, causing it to deviate. This deviation is dependent on the angle of incidence, prism angle, and refractive index of the material.
What is the angle of deviation in a prism?
The angle of deviation is the total bending of light as it passes through the prism, which is the difference between the incident ray and the refracted ray.
What causes dispersion in a prism?
Dispersion occurs when different wavelengths of light bend at different angles as they pass through a prism, splitting white light into its spectrum (rainbow colors). Blue light bends more than red light.
What is total internal reflection (TIR) in a prism?
Total internal reflection occurs when light is incident at an angle greater than the critical angle inside the prism, causing it to be reflected entirely inside the prism without passing through the second surface.
