Snell's Law of RefractionMathematics

Snell's Law Optical Refraction & Critical Angle Physics Calculator

Calculate angle of refraction (θ2), critical angle for Total Internal Reflection (TIR), and index of refraction across glass, water, optical fibers, and diamond interfaces.

Calculator Inputs

Live Real-Time
deg
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Calculated ResultSnell's Law of Refraction

Angle of Refraction (θ₂)

19.86deg

Speed of Light in Medium 2 (km/s)

197,368.42 km/s

Sine of Refraction Angle sin(θ₂)

0.33 val

Optical Bending: Light bends toward the normal boundary when entering a denser refractive medium.

Optical Refraction Angles

Incident Angle θ₁
30 deg(60%)
Refraction Angle θ₂
19.86 deg(40%)

Detailed Calculation Breakdown

Incident Angle θ₁
30 deg
Refraction Angle θ₂
19.86 deg

Calculation Methodology

Snell's Law: n1 * sin(θ1) = n2 * sin(θ2). Refraction Angle: θ2 = arcsin[(n1/n2) * sin(θ1)]. Critical Angle: θ_crit = arcsin(n2 / n1) when n1 > n2.

Important Legal & Educational Disclaimer

This geometric optics tool models electromagnetic wavefront refraction across optical boundaries.

This calculator is designed for educational and informational purposes only based on public statutory frameworks. The outputs do not constitute binding financial, tax, or legal advice. We assume no liability for decisions made based on these estimations. Always verify with the relevant official authorities or a certified professional advisor.

Frequently Asked Questions

The minimum angle of incidence in a denser optical medium above which light cannot cross into the rarer medium, reflecting entirely back into the denser medium.
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