The values of absolute refractive indices of kerosene and water are 1.44 and 1.33 respectively. Compare the…
The values of absolute refractive indices of kerosene and water are 1.44 and 1.33 respectively. Compare the two media on the basis of their
(a) optical density
(b) mass density
(c) relative speed of propagation of light.
What do you infer on the basis of above comparisons ?
Solution
Kerosene (1.44) / Water (1.33)
(a) Higher optical density / Lower optical density
(b) Lower mass density / Higher mass density
(c) Lower speed of light / Higher speed of light
Inference: Although, kerosene is optically denser than water but its mass density is less than water/ An optically denser medium may not possess greater mass density.