Compute the refractive index of a medium from the speed of light in it, n = c/v.
由光在介質中的速度求折射率。
| Item | Formula / Note | Source / Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Refractive index definition | n = c / v, c = vacuum speed of light, v = phase velocity in medium | Snell's index definition / IAU |
| Speed of light in vacuum | c = 299,792,458 m/s (defined) | SI units (2019 revision) |
Constants used on this page and their authoritative sources, for verification and citation
| Constant | Value | Unit | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speed of light in vacuum c | 299 792 458 | m·s⁻¹ | SI defining constant (exact) |
| Refractive index of vacuum | 1 (by definition) | — | Definition basis of refractive index (n = c/v) |
Note: refractive index is wavelength-dependent (dispersion); commonly quoted values are measured at the sodium D line (589.3 nm).