answersLogoWhite

0

It is because the index is related to the velocity of light in air (ideally vacuum) and the medium in question. Since the velocity of light in vacuum is greater than it can be in any other media, the index of refraction of these other media relative to the vacuum is greater than 1.

However, if you studied light travelling through glass and then water, the index of refraction between those two would be 0.89 (approx).

User Avatar

Wiki User

11y ago

Still curious? Ask our experts.

Chat with our AI personalities

FranFran
I've made my fair share of mistakes, and if I can help you avoid a few, I'd sure like to try.
Chat with Fran
ViviVivi
Your ride-or-die bestie who's seen you through every high and low.
Chat with Vivi
EzraEzra
Faith is not about having all the answers, but learning to ask the right questions.
Chat with Ezra

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: Why the index of refraction is greater than to one?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp