Polarization Reflection question

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around determining the thickness of a thin film of ethyl alcohol that reflects yellow light (560 nm) when illuminated with white light. It involves concepts such as Huygen's Principle and polarization by reflection to ensure that the light waves reflected from the top surface and the alcohol-glass interface are in phase. The required film thickness can be calculated using the formula for constructive interference, taking into account the refractive index of ethyl alcohol (n=1.36) and the wavelength of the reflected light. The participants express uncertainty about the starting point for calculations and the principles involved. Understanding these concepts is crucial for solving the problem effectively.
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A thin film of ethyl alcohol (n=1.36) is spread on a flat glass plate and illuminated with white light. When illuminated and viewed from directly above, it shows a coloured pattern in reflection. If the only visible light reflected by a certain region of the film is yellow (lambda=560nm), how thick is the film there? Justify (assume visible spectrum is 400-7800nm)

:bugeye:

I have no idea where/how to start and what it involves.

I have a feeling it invovles Huygen's Principle and Polarization by Reflection.
 
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What thicknesses of ethyl alcohol will result in the yellow light reflected off the top surface and the yellow light reflecting off the alcohol-glass surface being in phase as they head back up to the observer?
 

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