Is 2t a Rough Estimate of Wavelength in Thin Film Interference?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around thin film interference, specifically regarding the relationship between the thickness of a soap bubble and the wavelength of light that is reflected. The original poster expresses uncertainty about their understanding of the concept and the calculations involved.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to understand how the thickness of the film relates to the wavelength of light, questioning whether 2t serves as a rough estimate of the wavelength. Other participants discuss the relationship between path length differences and interference conditions, including destructive interference.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes attempts to clarify the relationship between the thickness of the film and the wavelength of light, with some participants providing confirmations and additional insights. However, there is no explicit consensus on the original poster's understanding or the calculations presented.

Contextual Notes

The original poster mentions a specific thickness of the soap bubble and its refractive index, which may influence the calculations and assumptions being discussed. There is also a reference to homework constraints regarding the problem setup.

killerfish
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Hi guys,

i have problem with Interference in Thin Films, i tried worked the solution not sure it is correct. Hope someone can help me check? Also there is some part on the topic i don't quite follow, 2t is the extra distance traveled inside the film, then is 2t is also rough estimate of wavelenth?


Homework Statement


A soap bubble (n = 1.33) is floating in air. If the thickness of the bubble wall is 115 nm,
what is the wavelength of the light that is most strongly reflected?


The Attempt at a Solution



the worked solution by me is in attachment.

dddd.JPG



Thank you.
 
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After a quick look through, it looks fine to me.

Also, 2t is related to the wavelength from the equation you just worked out. It is more directly related to the wavelength of the light inside of medium, n=1.33. But not exactly sure what you are asking.
 
sry for the late reply...

1. for example, if the system give destructive result, i should sub in (m + 1/2)\lambdan into \Delta at the third line of equation ?

2. and you mentioned the 2t is relate to the wavelength, then we actually can use that to find the wavelength entered into the thin film using simple trigo rule?
 
Last edited:
1. Yes, for destructive interference the path length difference needs to be that.

2. You already solved it, so not sure what else you are trying to do here.
 

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