Constructive & destructive interference of light waves

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on deriving the conditions for constructive and destructive interference of light waves reflected from a glass plate with a thickness of 350 nm and a refractive index of 1.33. The light source is positioned at a 75-degree angle relative to the glass plate. Key concepts include the application of Snell's Law to determine the angle of refraction and the consideration of multiple reflections from the glass surfaces, which are essential for analyzing interference patterns on the observation screen.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Snell's Law for refraction
  • Knowledge of interference patterns in wave physics
  • Familiarity with the concept of refractive index
  • Basic principles of light reflection and transmission
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of constructive and destructive interference in wave mechanics
  • Learn how to apply Snell's Law in various optical scenarios
  • Explore the effects of multiple reflections in thin films
  • Investigate the relationship between wavelength and interference patterns
USEFUL FOR

Students studying optics, physics educators, and anyone interested in the principles of light interference and refraction in thin films.

necromanzer52
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Homework Statement


A glass-plate of 350 nm thickness is free standing in space. At the angle of 75 degrees, relative to the glass-plate plane, a white light point-source is placed. The diffraction (probably a typo, and should really be refraction) index of the glass is 1.33. On the same side as the light source, a screen is placed, allowing the observation of the reflections from the glass-plate.
Derive, explicitly, the conditions for the observation of constructive and destructive interference on the screen.


Homework Equations


I really have no idea, other than; that Snell's law should probably come into it at some stage.


The Attempt at a Solution


I drew a diagram, and I used Snell's law to work out the angle of refraction. I sat still for half an hour, reading the question over and over, trying to figure out what interference had to do with anything in the question.
I really just need to know, where to start. I have no idea how to begin to attempt this question
 
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Do you think the 350 nm specification might have anything to do with it? Could there be reflections from more than one surface?
 
Well, this is just the first part of the question.

Oh yeah, reflections from more than one surface. That's a lot of help actually. Thanks.
I'd ask for more hints, but I have to go hand it in now.
 

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