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AP Physics 2
13.3 Refraction
AdvancedMCQMathematicalConceptual18.5k
A light ray incident normally on the first surface of a triangular prism with apex angle \(\Phi\).
A light ray incident normally on the first surface of a triangular prism with apex angle \(\Phi\).
A ray of white light in air is incident normally (\(\theta_1 = 0^\circ\)) on the first surface of a glass prism with apex angle \(\Phi\), where \(\Phi\) is less than the critical angle for the glass-air interface. The glass has an index of refraction \(n\) that depends on wavelength. The ray travels through the glass and refracts as it emerges from the second surface into air, deviating from its original path by a total angle \(\delta\).

ChoiceTotal Angle of Deviation \(\delta\)Wavelength with Greater Deviation
A\(\arcsin(n \sin\Phi) + \Phi\)Violet light
B\(\arcsin(n \sin\Phi) - \Phi\)Violet light
C\(\arcsin\left(\dfrac{\sin\Phi}{n}\right) - \Phi\)Red light
D\(\arcsin(n \sin\Phi) - \Phi\)Red light

Which entry in the table correctly gives the expression for the total angle of deviation \(\delta\) and identifies which visible component of the light experiences the greater deviation?

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