When does total internal reflection occur?
When light travels from dense to less dense medium and the incident angle exceeds the critical angle.
Calculator
Enter your values
Results
Refracted Angle
19.47°
Analysis
Interpretation of the current calculator output
Calculation Summary
The current inputs have been processed for the refraction calculator. Review the results panel for the computed output and use the charts tab to compare the current values visually.
How to Read It
The main result shows the direct answer for your current inputs. Supporting sections below explain the method, example, and common questions so the result is easier to interpret.
How to Use
Step-by-step instructions
- 1Enter refractive indices of both media.
- 2Enter incident angle.
- 3View refracted angle.
Snell's Law
Light bends when entering a different medium.
n₁sin(θ₁) = n₂sin(θ₂)Variables:
nRefractive indexθAngle from normalExample
Air to Glass
Inputs:
n₁:1.0 (air)
n₂:1.5 (glass)
θ₁:30°
Steps:
- 1.1.0 × sin(30°) = 1.5 × sin(θ₂)
- 2.θ₂ ≈ 19.47°
Result:
19.47°