Finding Thickness of glass knowing OPD and refractive index.

AI Thread Summary
To find the thickness of a glass window required for an optical path difference (OPD) of 4.5 wavelengths, the refractive index of the glass is 1.7 and the refractive index of air is assumed to be 1.0. The formula used is t = OPD / (n(s) - n(m)), leading to a calculated thickness of 6.4 microns. The wavelength of the sodium vapor lamp (589.3 nm) is relevant for determining the OPD in terms of wavelengths. The discussion seeks confirmation of the calculation and clarification on the significance of the wavelength provided.
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Homework Statement



A beam of light is split into two coherent beams of intensity I which are in phase. The two
beams are sent through different paths and superimposed at the same spot on a screen. A path
difference is to be achieved by inserting a glass window of refractive index of 1.7 in the path of
one of the beams while keeping the physical (actual) path lengths the same. How thick must the
window be for an optical path difference of 4.5 wavelengths using light from a sodium vapour
lamp (λ = 589.3 nm)?

Homework Equations



OPD = t(n(s) - (n(m))

The Attempt at a Solution



n(s) = 1.7
n(m) = 1.0 (assuming it's in air.)
OPD = 4.5

OPD/(n(s) - (n(m)) = t
...changing the equation around.

4.5/(1.7-1.0) = t
t = 6.4 microns

is this right?
 
Last edited:
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What is the unit of t?
What is the purpose of giving the wavelength of sodium vapor lamp?
 
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