n=sinαsinβn equals the fraction with numerator sine alpha and denominator sine beta end-fraction
By measuring these angles, we can calculate the optical density of the glass. 2. Experimental Procedure
In this lab, I determined the refractive index of glass by measuring the angles of light propagation at the boundary of two media. The results confirm that as light enters a more optically dense medium (glass) from a less dense one (air), the ray bends toward the normal. Potential errors in the experiment may arise from the thickness of the pencil lines or slight misalignments of the pins/laser.
Connect the entry and exit points to visualize the refracted ray inside the glass. Use a protractor to measure the angle of incidence ( ) and the angle of refraction (
Observe the ray as it passes through the glass. Mark the exit point on the opposite side of the plate.
Below is a structured template (essay/report) you can use for this work:
Laboratory Work No. 3: Determination of the Refractive Index of Glass