Critical Angle Calculator
Calculate the critical angle for total internal reflection at interfaces
Results
Critical Angle
41.8103°
n1 (denser)
1.5000
n2 (less dense)
1.0000
Brewster Angle (for comparison)
33.6901°
Speed Ratio (v2/v1)
1.5000
Applications of Total Internal Reflection
- Optical Fibers: Light guided through fiber core
- Prisms: Total reflection in binoculars and periscopes
- Diamond Brilliance: Multiple internal reflections create sparkle
- Endoscopes: Medical imaging through fiber bundles
- Reflectors: Cat's eyes and road reflectors
Common Critical Angles
- Glass-to-Air: ~42°
- Water-to-Air: ~49°
- Diamond-to-Air: ~24°
- Optical Fiber (typical): ~82°
Formula Used
sin(θc) = n2 / n1
θc = arcsin(n2 / n1)
Condition: n1 must be greater than n2