Interference of Light: Explaining Transparency & Opacity

AI Thread Summary
A super thin film can appear transparent in transmitted light due to constructive interference allowing most light to pass through, while it appears opaque in reflected light due to destructive interference that cancels out certain wavelengths. The interaction of light waves at the film's surface leads to varying visibility depending on the angle of observation. When light strikes the film, some is reflected and some transmitted; the balance between these depends on the film's thickness and the wavelength of light. This phenomenon illustrates how interference effects can alter the perception of transparency and opacity. Understanding these principles clarifies why thin films can exhibit such contrasting visual properties.
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hey found this question in my textbook...
explain using interferance why a super thin film is transparent or invisible in transmitted light but seems to be opaque when viewed with reflected light. Draw a diagram for your solution. any ideas?? i really have no idea. thanks for your time though.
 
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HINT: How much reflected light would there be if all the light were transmitted? :)
 
if all the light went through wouldn't it be "invisible" but how could it be opaque?, like i guess some reflected rays and incident rays would create destructive interferance, but wouldn't you still be able to see through?
 
Think of what your looking for. (Light that's reflected back or light that goes through)
 

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