Physics Refraction at Spherical Surface and by Lenses Class 12th Physics Ray Optics and Optical Instruments

Which among denser or rarer media has a higher refractive index?

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When these two media are compared, then, it is evident that rarer medium has lower refracted index as compared to denser medium. Denser media like glass and water have higher refractive index whereas rarer medium like air and vacuum have lower refractive index. Due to this, the light will bend towards the normal when it travels from rarer to denser medium. On the other hand, light will bend away from normal when it travels from denser to a rarer medium.

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