Question

In the picture, what can you say about the indices of refraction n1 and n2? (1 point)

n1 < n2

n1 > n2

n1 = n2

Not enough information to tell

Answer 1

(c) n1 = n2

Step-by-step explanation:

You want to know what can be said about the indices of refraction when a light ray continues on a straight path from one medium to another.

Refraction

When a wave passes through media where the index of refraction changes, its path will be bent in accordance with Snell's law. When the index of refraction does not change, the path will remain unbent.

The figure shows the path of the ray is a straight line, so we can conclude ...

n1 = n2 . . . . . choice C

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Additional comment

Even if the indices are different, the path will remain straight if the angle of incidence is 0—the path is normal to the interface between media. Here, the path is not shown as normal to the interface.