Interference of Light: Explaining Transparency & Opacity

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of interference and its role in the transparency of super thin films. The person is seeking an explanation for why a super thin film appears transparent in transmitted light but opaque in reflected light. They also mention using a diagram to aid in their understanding. The conversation ends with a hint about the amount of reflected light and a question about how a film can be both transparent and opaque. The other person responds by suggesting that destructive interference may play a role in this phenomenon. They also mention considering the type of light being observed, whether it is reflected or transmitted.
  • #1
SwAnK
51
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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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  • #2
HINT: How much reflected light would there be if all the light were transmitted? :)
 
  • #3
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?
 
  • #4
Think of what your looking for. (Light that's reflected back or light that goes through)
 

1. What is interference of light?

Interference of light is a phenomenon that occurs when two or more light waves overlap and interact with each other. This interaction can result in constructive or destructive interference, which affects the overall intensity and appearance of the light.

2. How does interference of light explain transparency?

Transparency occurs when light is able to pass through a material without being scattered or absorbed. In interference of light, transparent materials have a regular, repeating pattern of molecules that allows light waves to pass through without much interference, resulting in the material appearing clear or see-through.

3. How does interference of light explain opacity?

Opacity occurs when light is unable to pass through a material and is either reflected or absorbed. In interference of light, opaque materials have an irregular, disordered pattern of molecules that causes light to scatter and be absorbed, resulting in the material appearing solid and not see-through.

4. Can interference of light be observed in everyday life?

Yes, interference of light can be observed in many everyday situations. For example, when you see a rainbow, you are observing interference of light as the sunlight is being refracted and reflected by water droplets in the atmosphere. Another example is when you see colors on a soap bubble, which is caused by interference of light as it reflects off the thin layer of soap film.

5. How is interference of light used in technology and science?

Interference of light is used in a variety of technologies and scientific applications. Some examples include: in anti-reflective coatings for glasses and camera lenses, in holography for creating 3D images, in optical filters for separating different wavelengths of light, and in interferometers for measuring small changes in distance. It is also used in scientific research to study the properties of light and to understand the behavior of matter at a molecular level.

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