Answer to Question #113209 in Optics for Jason Crary

Question

You want to use a right angle prism to reflect light, as part of a periscope. What materials would you use for the prism? (choose from air (n=1), water (n=1.3), Glass (n=1.5), or diamond (n=2.2)). Why are prisms rather than mirrors involved in many optical devices?

Answer 1

You need to choose with n> 1.4. with this indicator, the effect of full reflection occurs. Prism does not require a reflective layer. Choose the glass prism.