Understanding the Angle of Polarization
The angle of polarization (also known as Brewster's angle) is the angle at which light with a particular polarization is perfectly transmitted through a transparent dielectric surface, with no reflection. This phenomenon occurs when the reflected and refracted rays are perpendicular to each other.

Formula for Brewster's Angle
The relationship between the angle of polarization (θ) and the refractive indices of the two media can be derived from Brewster's Law:

tan(θ) = n₂/n₁
Where:
- θ = angle of polarization (53 degrees in this case)
- n₂ = refractive index of the second medium (water)
- n₁ = refractive index of the first medium (air, approximately 1)

Calculating the Refractive Index of Water
1. **Convert Angle to Radians:**
- θ = 53 degrees = tan(53°)
2. **Using the Formula:**
- tan(53°) ≈ 1.327
- Therefore, the equation becomes:
1.327 = n₂/1
- This simplifies to:
n₂ = 1.327
3. **Conclusion:**
- The refractive index of water (n₂) is approximately 1.327.

Implications of the Refractive Index
The refractive index indicates how much light slows down and bends when entering a medium. A refractive index of 1.327 for water implies that light travels slower in water than in air, leading to a change in speed and direction of light as it transitions between these two media.

Final Note
Understanding the angle of polarization and the refractive index enhances comprehension of optical phenomena, crucial in fields like optics, photography, and material science.