Finding Longest Wavelength

In summary, a sheet of glass with a thickness of 95.6 nm and a refractive index of 1.5 is coated with a layer of magnesium fluoride with a thickness of 95.6 nm and a refractive index of 1.38 to prevent reflection in the visible spectrum when the incoming light is normal to the surface. The longest wavelength of light strongly reflected from this coated surface can be calculated using the equation 95.6 = x/4(1.38) which results in a value of 527 nm. However, this calculation is incorrect and further reasoning is needed to determine the correct value. The condition for strong reflection off the top surface of the film is also discussed.
  • #1
Barry Melby
31
0

Homework Statement


A sheet of glass (nglass = 1.5) is coated with a 95.6-nm-thick layer of magnesium fluoride (ncoating = 1.38) to prevent reflection in the visible spectrum. Assume the incoming light is normal to the surface.
What is the longest wavelength of light strongly reflected from this coated surface?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution



95.6 = x/4(1.38) = 527 nm
This is incorrect however.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Please show your reasoning.
Note: you have written 95.6 = 527 ... which is, indeed, false. I don't think that is what you meant.

Under what circumstances does a reflected wave invert?
What condition is needed for strong reflection off the top surface of the film?
 

What is the concept of finding the longest wavelength?

The concept of finding the longest wavelength involves identifying and measuring the longest distance between two consecutive peaks or troughs in a wave. This can be applied to various types of waves, including electromagnetic waves and sound waves.

Why is finding the longest wavelength important?

Finding the longest wavelength can provide valuable information about the properties of a wave and its source. In astronomy, for example, measuring the longest wavelength of light emitted by a celestial object can reveal its temperature and chemical composition.

How is the longest wavelength calculated?

The longest wavelength can be calculated by using the formula λ = c/v, where λ is the wavelength, c is the speed of light, and v is the frequency of the wave. This formula is based on the relationship between wavelength, frequency, and the speed at which a wave travels.

What are some real-world applications of finding the longest wavelength?

Finding the longest wavelength has many practical applications. In telecommunications, for instance, it is used to determine the maximum distance over which a signal can be transmitted without losing strength. It is also important in fields such as spectroscopy, where it is used to identify and analyze different molecules and compounds.

What factors can affect the length of the longest wavelength?

The length of the longest wavelength can be affected by various factors, including the type of wave, the medium through which it is traveling, and the source of the wave. For example, longer wavelengths are typically associated with lower frequency sound waves, while shorter wavelengths are associated with higher frequency electromagnetic waves.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
3K
Replies
3
Views
907
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
953
Back
Top