Calculating Minimum Thickness of a Thin Film Using Interference Patterns

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the minimum thickness of a thin film of benzene floating on water using interference patterns from reflected light. The original poster presents measurements and equations related to the problem, specifically focusing on the wavelength of light and the refractive indices of the materials involved.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the use of different equations for calculating film thickness and question the relevance of refractive indices in their calculations. There is also exploration of how to determine the wavelength of light within the film.

Discussion Status

Some participants have attempted calculations and shared their results, while others express confusion and seek clarification on the methods used. There is a mix of attempts to derive the correct approach, with some participants indicating they have resolved their confusion independently.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of understanding the refractive indices and the implications for the wavelength of light in the film, suggesting that assumptions about these factors may need to be revisited.

LippyKa16
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Homework Statement


A researcher measures the thickness of a layer of benzene (n = 1.50) floating on water by shining monochromatic light onto the film and varying the wavelength of the light. She finds that light of wavelength 565nm is reflected most strongly from the film. What does she calculate for the minimum thickness of the film?

Values:
λ = 565*10^-9m
n(benzene) = 1.50
n(water) = 1.33

Homework Equations


I have tried both of these equations:
2t = mλ
2t = ½mλ

The Attempt at a Solution


Subbing in the values needed, I get
t = (1 * 565*10^-9) / 2
= 2.825*10^-7m
or
t = (½ * 1 * 565*10^-9) / 2
= 1.4125*10^-7m
 
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LippyKa16 said:

Homework Statement


A researcher measures the thickness of a layer of benzene (n = 1.50) floating on water by shining monochromatic light onto the film and varying the wavelength of the light. She finds that light of wavelength 565nm is reflected most strongly from the film. What does she calculate for the minimum thickness of the film?

Values:
λ = 565*10^-9m
n(benzene) = 1.50
n(water) = 1.33

Homework Equations


I have tried both of these equations:
2t = mλ
2t = ½mλ
These are not the relevant equations. Do you think the refractive indices do not count?
 
I wasn't too sure.
Would that mean I would have to calculate the relevant wavelength through the film?
Would that mean:
λfilm = λ / n(benzene) (λ = 565 and n(benzene) = 1.5)
λfilm = 3.77*10^-7

*EDIT* I realize the mistake I made, and I did need to calculate λfilm.
The answer I got was 9.42*10^-8 and that was correct.
 
Last edited:
How did you get the correct answer? Please do show the working out. I am lost in this question. Thank you heaps
 
Nevermind, i have figured out the answer.
 
Can you please demonstrae your working for Q9,10,11 if you remember or its available thanx
 

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