Question

What is meant by "refractive index of water is \(1.33\)"?

Hint:

Refractive index is a dimensionless quantity because it is a ratio of two speeds.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Absolute refractive index is defined based on the speed of light.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The absolute refractive index (\(\mu\)) of a medium is the ratio of the speed of light in a vacuum (\(c\)) to the speed of light in that specific medium (\(v\)).
Mathematically, \(\mu = \frac{c}{v}\).
Saying the refractive index of water is \(1.33\) means that light travels \(1.33\) times faster in a vacuum than it does in water.

Step 3: Final Answer:
It means the speed of light in a vacuum is \(1.33\) times the speed of light in water.