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Chapter 9: Problem 53

Would a prism made of diamond be better at dispersing light than one made of glass? Why or why not?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: Diamond is better at dispersing light than glass due to its higher refractive index. The greater refractive index leads to a more colorful and vibrant spectrum of light as it passes through the diamond prism, creating a greater dispersion effect.

Step by step solution

01

Define the refractive index and light dispersion

The refractive index of a material is the ratio of the speed of light in vacuum to the speed of light in the material. This property determines how much light bends when entering the material, causing dispersion of different wavelengths (colors) of light to different extents. The greater the refractive index, the greater the dispersion of light.
02

Compare the refractive indices of diamond and glass

Diamond has a refractive index between 2.417 and 2.476, depending on the specific crystal orientation. Glass, on the other hand, has a refractive index that typically ranges between 1.45 and 1.9, depending on the glass type. In this case, diamond has a higher refractive index compared to glass.
03

Analyze the relationship between refractive index and light dispersion

Since a higher refractive index leads to a greater dispersion of light, and diamond has a higher refractive index than glass, diamond would disperse light more effectively than glass.
04

Conclusion - Comparing diamond and glass prism light dispersion

A prism made of diamond would be better at dispersing light than one made of glass due to its higher refractive index. This results in a more colorful and vibrant spectrum of light as it passes through the diamond prism, creating a greater dispersion effect.

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