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In every table of refractive indices, which materials show the slowest light speed?
AMaterials with the smallest indices of refraction
BMaterials with the greatest indices of refraction
CMaterials that are gases rather than liquids or solids
DMaterials that appear transparent rather than coloured
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: B. Materials with the greatest indices of refraction
1. Index of refraction is n = c/v, so a larger n means a smaller v for a fixed c.
2. The largest indices therefore belong to the materials where light travels slowest.
3. Gases in general have indices very close to one, so they are not where the slowest speeds are found.
_Source: OpenStax Physics (CC BY 4.0), Ch 16 "Mirrors and Lenses", section 16.2 Refraction_
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