Destructive Interference of Light in 165nm Bubble Film

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the destructive interference of light in a bubble film with a thickness of 165 nm and an index of refraction of 1.3. To achieve destructive interference, the effective wavelength of light within the bubble film must be halved, which occurs due to the refractive index. The wavelengths provided for consideration are 430 nm, 650 nm, 860 nm, and 285 nm. The solution involves calculating the effective wavelength by dividing the original wavelength by the refractive index and determining which wavelengths will result in a path difference that meets the criteria for destructive interference.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave interference principles
  • Knowledge of the refractive index and its effect on wavelength
  • Familiarity with basic optics equations
  • Ability to perform calculations involving wavelength and thickness
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate effective wavelengths in different media using the formula: λ' = λ/n
  • Explore the concept of phase shifts upon reflection in thin films
  • Study the conditions for constructive and destructive interference
  • Investigate applications of thin film interference in optical coatings
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Students studying optics, physics educators, and anyone interested in the principles of light interference and its applications in materials science.

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Homework Statement



Light waves of which wavelength will destructively interfere due to the thickness of the bubble film? The bubble film thickness is 165 nm, with an index of refraction of n = 1.3.

a= 430 nm
b= 650 nm
c= 860 nm
d= 285 nm
(different wavelengths)

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



for the interference to be destructive the wave passing through the bubble thickness is delayed by half a wavelength. The wavelength of the light decreases when it passes into the bubble film.
I know this but i just don't know how to apply it to a equation and the problem
 
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The half wavelength path difference corresponds to a light ray traversing the bubble film and being reflected from the inner bubble surface. So the path difference is twice the bubble thickness modulated by the effect of the refractive index. How does the refractive index alter the effective path length? Well you can try either multiplying or dividing by the given value of 1.3 to get the right mathematical result by comparison with the multiple choices; more important is to try to understand physically why light behaves like this in a transparent medium.
 

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