Assignment

1. Explain the physical principle behind determining the angle of a prism using a spectrometer. Why is it that the angle between the two reflected rays (θ) is twice the actual prism angle (A)?
2. Draw a ray diagram showing the incidence of light on both refracting surfaces of a prism and the reflection from those surfaces. Label the angle of incidence, reflected rays, and the prism angle. How does this diagram support the formula A = θ / 2?
3. List and explain the step-by-step procedure for determining the angle of a prism using a spectrometer. What precautions must be taken while aligning the telescope and collimator to ensure accurate angle measurement?
4. The spectrometer reading for the two reflected rays from the prism faces are observed at 80° and 140° on the main scale. Calculate:
   • The angle between the reflected rays (θ)
   • The angle of the prism (A)
   Provide all calculation steps clearly.
5. Identify possible sources of error in this experiment while determining the angle of a prism using a spectrometer. What steps can be taken to reduce both instrumental and human errors during the experiment?