Measurement of apex angle of the prism using total internal reflection

Total internal reflection technique is examined critically for the measurement of apex angle of the prism. Recognition of the critical boundary completely specifies the apex angle 'A' of the prism by keeping constant the ratio of refractive index of sample fluid (n(1) = 1.4) to that of glass (n(2) = 1.7). Recording of observations in the laboratory is dependent upon whether the apex angle 'A' of prism is greater than or less than or equal to critical angle 'r(c)'. The minimum value of error function 'chi' in the proximity of Abbe angle explain the choice of Abbe type instruments and shown invariant by relating positive 'alpha(+)' and the negative angle of emergence 'alpha(-)'. Using ray-tracing technique, an expression for the length of the critical boundary 'l' is derived and is shown as a measure of the apex angle 'A' of the prism. The choice of the realistic grazing condition leads us to two turning points for which error function is minimal and yields appropriate option of the measurement of apex angle 'A' of the prism. It is further shown that the small error 'zeta' crept in the apex angle 'A' of the prism can lead to a significant error in the design of Pulfrich type instruments. Experimental measurements are in-line with the predictions made. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.