Question

The equation \[\omega = \frac{\mu_u - \mu_r}{\mu - 1}\] was derived for a prism having small refracting angle. Is it also valid for a prism of large refracting angle? Is it also valid for a glass slab or a glass sphere?

Answer 1

Dispersive power depends on angular deviation, and angular deviation is valid only for a small refracting angle and a small angle of incidence. Therefore, dispersive power is not valid for a prism of large refracting angle. It is also not valid for a glass slab or a glass sphere, as it has a large refracting angle.