`"n" = c/ "v" `

Enter a value for all fields

The Index of Refraction calculator computes the index of refraction of a medium based on the speed of light in a vacuum and the speed of light through the medium.

INSTRUCTIONS:  Choose units and enter the following:

• (v) This is the speed of light through the medium

Index of Refraction (n):  The calculator return the index as a real number.

The Math / Science

Refraction is the abrupt change in the direction of light as it changes medium.The index of refraction is defined as the speed of light in vacuum divided by the speed of light in the medium. The index of refraction is also called refractive index.  The formula for the index of refraction is:

          n=c/v

where:

• n is the index of refraction
• c is the speed of light in a vacuum
• v is the  speed of light in a medium

Index of Refraction of Materials

• Air - 1.000277
• Water - 1.33333
• Diamond - 2.417
• Ice - 1.32
• Clear Glass - 1.5 to 1.75