Question

In a straight rod partially immersed in water with a refractive index of 1.33, its submerged position appears inclined at 45° with the water's surface when viewed vertically through air. What is the actual inclination of the rod?

a) 30°
b) 45°
c) 60°
d) 90°

Answer 1

The actual inclination of the rod is 45°.

Step-by-step explanation:

The actual inclination of the rod can be determined by considering the phenomenon of refraction. When light passes from one medium to another, it changes direction due to the difference in the refractive indices of the two media.

In this case, the air-water interface causes the light rays from the rod to bend as they enter the water. So, the rod appears to be bent when viewed through air.

Since the submerged position of the rod appears inclined at 45° with the water's surface, the actual inclination of the rod is also 45°.