Question

Following observation are taken from a travelling microscope to determine the refractive index of a liquid. Reading for the bottom of an empty beaker = 12.324 cm. Reading for the bottom of the beaker when partially filled with the liquid = 12.802 cm. Reading for the liquid surface = 13.895 cm. What is the refractive index of the liquid ?

• A. 1.232
• B. 1.389
• C. 1.437
• D. 1.208

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

1.437

Answer 2

Real depth = x₃ – x₁ = 13.895 – 12.324 = 1.571 cm

Apparent depth = x₃ – x₂ = 13.895 – 12.802

= 1.093 cm

Refractive index = $\frac { 1.571 } { 1.093 }$ = 1.437