Prism: Refractive Index vs Minimum Deviation

Prism formula at minimum deviation · ch09-ray-optics-and-optical-instruments

Vary the prism angle A and plot the refractive index μ that yields a chosen minimum deviation Dm.

Controls

Minimum deviation Dm (deg)30 deg

amplitude A1.00 m

Live values

\mu = \frac{\sin((A+D_m)/2)}{\sin(A/2)}

Try this: x is the prism angle A in degrees. Realistic glasses give μ between 1.4 and 1.8.