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Fresnel Reflectance Calculator

Calculate s-pol, p-pol, and average Fresnel reflectance at a dielectric interface. Computes Brewster's angle, critical angle, and multi-surface system transmittance.

When light crosses the boundary between two optical media, a fraction reflects and the rest transmits. The Fresnel equations determine these fractions separately for s-polarized (TE) and p-polarized (TM) light as a function of incidence angle and the refractive indices on each side. This calculator computes s-pol and p-pol reflectance across all angles, identifies Brewster's angle (where p-pol reflection vanishes) and the critical angle for total internal reflection, and estimates multi-surface transmittance for a stack of N identical interfaces. Use this tool when designing anti-reflection coatings, evaluating window insertion losses, or working with Brewster windows in laser cavities.

Interface Properties
System
Reflectance
R_s (s-polarization)
4.219%
R_p (p-polarization)
4.219%
R_avg (unpolarized)
4.219%
Transmittance
T (single surface)
95.781%
T_system (2 surfaces)
91.74%
Special Angles
Brewster’s angle θ_B
56.61°
Critical angle
N/A (n₁ ≤ n₂)
Abridged Optics — Fresnel Reflectance Calculator v1.0R = ((n₁−n₂)/(n₁+n₂))² at normal incidence. T_sys = (1−R_avg)^N. Brewster: θ_B = arctan(n₂/n₁).

All information, equations, and calculations have been compiled and verified to the best of our ability. For mission-critical applications, we recommend independent verification of all values. If you find an error, please let us know.