Brewster Angle
This interactive simulator explores Brewster Angle in Optics & Light. tan θ_B = n₂/n₁; R_p→0; θᵢ+θₜ=90°; Fresnel R_s, R_p vs θᵢ. Use the controls to change the scenario; watch the visualization and any graphs or readouts to connect the model with lectures, labs, and homework.
Who it's for: Best once you already know the basic definitions and want to build intuition. Typical context: Optics & Light.
Key terms
- brewster
- angle
- brewster angle
- optics
- light
Live graphs
How it works
At a dielectric boundary, reflectivity depends on polarization. For p-polarization (electric field in the plane of incidence), there is an incidence angle θ_B — Brewster’s angle — where the reflected wave vanishes and the reflected and refracted directions are perpendicular. Then tan θ_B = n₂/n₁. The reflected light at Brewster is purely s-polarized (electric field perpendicular to the plane of incidence).
Key equations
More from Optics & Light
Other simulators in this category — or see all 31.
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OPL = n₁AP+n₂PB vs hit point; minimum = Snell path.
Chromatic Aberration
Cauchy n(λ); thin-lens f(λ); paraxial rays R/G/B.
Diffraction
Single and double slit with interference patterns.
Color Mixing
Additive (RGB) and subtractive (CMY) interactive color mixing.
Polarization (Malus)
Two polarizers. Rotate θ, see I = I₁ cos²θ and extinction.
Whispering Gallery (Rays)
Circular mirror: shallow chords refocus acoustic energy opposite the source (geometric optics).