Question

Suppose that the setup of the preceding problem is immersed in an unknown liquid. If 18 fringes per centimeter are now seen along the slide, what is the index of refraction of the liquid?

a. 1.33
b. 1.45
c. 1.25
d. 1.20

Answer 1

To determine the index of refraction of an unknown liquid based on interference fringes, additional data such as the initial fringe count or the wavelength of light is typically required. Without this information, it is not possible to accurately calculate the index of refraction.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question asks to determine the index of refraction of an unknown liquid based on the observation of interference fringes per centimeter. To solve this question, a relationship between the change in fringe pattern and index of refraction would typically be used. However, given the information provided, there appears to be missing data such as the wavelength of light or the initial fringe count.

Normally, to find the index of refraction we would use the formula n = λ_{air}/λ_{liquid}, where λ represents the wavelength in the respective medium. A change in the number of fringes when submerged in an unknown liquid indicates a change in the wavelength of light due to the liquid's index of refraction.

Without additional information, such as the original fringe count or wavelength of light used, it is not possible to provide an accurate calculation or to choose the right option from the given answers.