Enter the refractive index of medium 2 and the refractive index of initial medium into the Calculator. The calculator will evaluate the Brewster’s Angle. 

Brewster’s Angle Formula

BA = atan ( n2/n1)

Variables:

  • BA is the Brewster’s Angle (degrees)
  • n2 is the refractive index of medium 2
  • n1 is the refractive index of the initial medium

To calculate Brewster’s Angle, take the inverse tangent of the refractive index of medium 2 over the refractive index of the initial medium.

How to Calculate Brewster’s Angle?

The following steps outline how to calculate the Brewster’s Angle.


  1. First, determine the refractive index of medium 2. 
  2. Next, determine the refractive index of initial medium. 
  3. Next, gather the formula from above = BA = atan ( n2/n1).
  4. Finally, calculate the Brewster’s Angle.
  5. After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.

Example Problem : 

Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.

refractive index of medium 2 = 30

refractive index of initial medium = 40