Question:medium

When unpolarized light is incident at an angle of 60° on a transparent medium from air, the reflected ray is completely polarized. The angle of refraction in the medium is:

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When unpolarized light is incident on a transparent medium, the reflected ray is completely polarized at Brewster's angle. The angle of refraction in the medium can be calculated based on this condition.
Updated On: Nov 26, 2025
  • 30°
  • 60°
  • 90°
  • 45°
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Brewster's Angle Definition
Brewster's law defines Brewster's angle, \( \theta_B \), as the angle of incidence \( \theta_i \) for which reflected light is fully polarized. The formula is: \[ \tan \theta_B = \frac{n_2}{n_1} \] Here, \( n_1 \) is the refractive index of the initial medium (air, approximately 1), and \( n_2 \) is the refractive index of the transparent medium. The equation simplifies to: \[ \tan \theta_B = n_2 \] 
Step 2: Snell's Law Application 
Snell's law establishes the relationship between the angle of incidence and the angle of refraction: \[ \frac{\sin \theta_i}{\sin \theta_r} = \frac{n_2}{n_1} \] Given \( \theta_i = 60^\circ \), \( \theta_r \) represents the angle of refraction. 
Step 3: Calculating Refraction Angle for Polarization 
For complete polarization of the reflected ray, the angle of incidence \( \theta_i = 60^\circ \) must equal Brewster's angle \( \theta_B \). Consequently, the angle of refraction \( \theta_r \) is calculated as: \[ \theta_r = 30^\circ \] 

Final Answer: The angle of refraction in the medium is  30°.

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