This is about em spectrum?
What are the effects of differences in the velocities of electromagnetic waves in different substances... long question
I believe the major effect would be refraction, I'll put up more once I recall them
Thank you
The effects of differences in the velocities of electromagnetic waves in different substances mainly depend on the refractive index of the material. The refractive index measures how much the speed of light is slowed down when it passes through a particular substance compared to its speed in a vacuum.
When electromagnetic waves transition from one substance to another with a different refractive index, several effects can occur:
1. Refraction: This is the bending of light as it passes from one medium to another. The change in velocity causes the wavefront to change direction, resulting in the apparent shift of objects when viewing them through a lens or a prism.
2. Reflection: When light encounters a surface between two substances with different refractive indices, part of the light is reflected back. This is how we see ourselves in mirrors, as the light is reflected back to our eyes.
3. Total internal reflection: This occurs when light transitions from a medium with a higher refractive index to one with a lower refractive index at an angle greater than the critical angle. Instead of passing through, the light is completely reflected back into the initial medium. This phenomenon is used in fiber optics to transmit data over long distances.
4. Dispersion: Different materials have different refractive indices for light of different wavelengths. This results in the separation of white light into its component colors when passing through a prism, creating a rainbow-like spectrum.
To calculate the effects of differences in velocity, you would need to know the refractive index of the substances involved. By applying Snell's Law (which relates the angle of incidence and the refractive indices of the two media), you can determine the angles at which refraction or total internal reflection will occur.
Experimental data and empirical formulas can also be used to determine how the refractive index varies with wavelength for a particular substance, allowing further analysis of dispersion effects.
In summary, differences in the velocities of electromagnetic waves in different substances lead to various effects such as refraction, reflection, total internal reflection, and dispersion, which can be understood and predicted through the use of the refractive index and Snell's Law.