Concepts

Refractive index, refraction

Overview

A U-rod in air transmits a laser beam like an optical fibre. When part of the rod is submerged in an index-matched mineral oil, the laser beam is no longer transmitted to the other end.

Details

Equipment

• [1] U-rod
• [1] Laser pointer
• [1] Glass container
• [1] Bottle of mineral oil
• [1] Roll of paper towels

Classroom Assembly

1. Pour the mineral oil to the glass container.

Script

1. Without submerging the U-rod in mineral oil, direct the laser beam to one end of the rod.
2. Notice the glow on the other end of the rod.
3. Lower the rod into the container until it is submerged in mineral oil.
4. Notice the intensity of the glow decreases as the rod is lowered.

Additional Resources