Question about whether the intensity of visible wavelengths is intensified

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the interference of light in a thin film, specifically examining how the refractive index of the lens compared to the film affects the intensity of visible wavelengths in reflected light. The original poster explores conditions for constructive and destructive interference based on the thickness of the film and the wavelengths involved.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to determine the wavelengths that may be intensified in reflected light based on the refractive indices and thickness of the film. They raise questions about the implications of using different indices and the relevance of light angles.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively questioning the assumptions made by the original poster, particularly regarding the choice of refractive index and the consideration of different orders of interference. There is an exploration of the conditions under which different indices should be applied, indicating a productive dialogue without a clear consensus yet.

Contextual Notes

There is a focus on the specific thickness of the film (100 nm) and the visible spectrum range (400-700 nm). Participants are considering the implications of phase changes and the conditions for constructive and destructive interference.

jisbon
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Homework Statement
A film has a refractive index of 1.45 and thickness of 100nm coated on the camera lens. Are there any wavelengths in the visible spectrum intensified in the reflected light if the refractive index of the lens is
(i) larger than film
(ii) smaller than film
Relevant Equations
-
Hi all, just wanted to check into check on my workings if it is correct :)

1580362370332.png

So if index of lens is more than film, both rays will have phase change, and hence for constructive interference:
##2nt=m\lambda ##
where n =1 and thickness = 100nm
When m=1 , wavelength is 200nm
m =2 wavelength is 100nm...
Hence can I conclude that there are no wavelengths in visible spectrum intensisifed in reflected light if index of lens is larger than film? (since visible is 400-700nm)

(ii)
On the other hand, if index is lower, they will have a phase difference:
##2nt=(m+0.5)\lambda ##
where n =1 and thickness = 100nm
When m=1 , wavelength is 133nm...
Hence can I conclude that there are no wavelengths in visible spectrum intensisifed in reflected light if index of lens is smaller than film too?
 
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Why did you plug in n=1 instead of the refractive index of the film?

What about m=0 for the second case?

Is light that is not orthogonal to the interfaces relevant?
 
mfb said:
Why did you plug in n=1 instead of the refractive index of the film?

What about m=0 for the second case?

Is light that is not orthogonal to the interfaces relevant?
In which situation should I choose which index to plug in?

Also, yep forgot about 0..
 
The index of the material where you calculate the propagation delay, which means the 100 nm thick coating here.
 

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