Verified Solution Science Light – Reflection and Refraction

The refractive index of diamond is 2.42. What is the meaning of this statement in relation to the speed of light?

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Solution ✔ Verified
  • AThe speed of light in diamond is 2.42 times the speed of light in vacuum.
  • BThe speed of light in vacuum is 2.42 times the speed of light in diamond.
  • CThe speed of light in diamond is 1/2.42 times the speed of light in vacuum.
  • DThe speed of light in diamond is 2.42 m/s.
Explanation

The refractive index (n) of a medium is defined as the ratio of the speed of light in vacuum (c) to the speed of light in that medium (v). So, n = c/v. If the refractive index of diamond is 2.42, it means that the speed of light in vacuum (c) is 2.42 times the speed of light in diamond (v). Alternatively, the speed of light in diamond is c/2.42.

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