Question

Light is traveling from one medium to another medium as given in the options. In which of the following options total internal reflection will be possible?

• A. Air to water
• B. Air to glass
• C. Water to glass
• D. Glass to water

Hint:

Total internal reflection occurs when light moves from a denser medium to a less dense one and when the angle of incidence exceeds the critical angle.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Total internal reflection occurs when light travels from a denser medium to a less dense medium and the angle of incidence is greater than the critical angle. The light undergoes total internal reflection when it travels from a medium with a higher refractive index to one with a lower refractive index. - In the case of air to water, the light travels from air (refractive index \(n \approx 1\)) to water (refractive index \(n \approx 1.33\)). Total internal reflection can occur for certain angles of incidence. - For other options, the refractive index of the second medium is either equal or smaller, preventing total internal reflection.