[dja01]

Does anyone know how the refractive index would change as a few drops of 2-propanol is added to water? To cyclohexane? I don't need a numerical value, just a yes or no answer for the lab report sheet.

[mjc123]

The RI of cyclohexane is higher than that of water. That of 2-propanol is roughly in the middle. So what do you think?

[dja01]

The RI of cyclohexane is higher than that of water. That of 2-propanol is roughly in the middle. So what do you think?

If I'm being honest, I've never encountered refractive indexes before. I'll take a shot, if the RI of 2-propanol is higher than water, then there will be a change. If the RI of cyclohexane is higher than 2 propanol, there will not be a change. Is this right?

[mjc123]

No. To a first approximation, RI follows the rule of mixtures.

Why are you doing this question if you've never encountered refractive indexes before?

[dja01]

It was the last question in our lab report. Seems like an added challenge question since we haven't really learned about it, so thats why I came here. Your initial response didn't really help my understanding, and the second response came too late, since I had unfortunately already had to turn in the report. Thanks anyway.