How Does Soap Film Thickness Affect Color Reflection in Optics?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on how the thickness of a soap film affects the colors observed when white light reflects off it. As the soap film forms on a horizontal cylinder, its thickness varies, influencing the color spectrum seen. Thicker areas of the film may appear darker or even black due to destructive interference, while thinner areas reflect more vibrant colors. Participants express confusion about the relationship between film thickness and color reflection, particularly regarding the transition from vibrant hues to darker shades. Understanding this relationship is key to grasping the optical properties of soap films.
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Soap Bubbles in terms of optics etc. Help needed :)

Homework Statement




The opening of a metal cylinder is dipped in soapy water so that a soap film forms. The cylinder is then turned so it is horizontal (and the soap film is vertical). What happens to the thickness of the soap film?


White light is shined through the cylinder, and you view the light that reflects off of the film. What do you see?


How is the thickness of the soap film related to what you see reflected off of the film?


Homework Equations



Well this is more of a conceptual one.

The Attempt at a Solution



I'm a bit confused at this one. For the second one, do you see a spectrum of colors (the rainbow)? I'm not sure about the thickness of the soap etc. If the soap is at its thickest it becomes black.. does it progressively become darker? Not sure again.

Thanks to anyone who can help me on this!
 
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