Reflectance Equal to Transmittance

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the conditions under which reflectance (R) and transmittance (T) are equal at normal incidence at an interface. The relevant equations include the Fresnel coefficients for reflectance (Rs) and transmittance (Ts), which are defined in terms of refractive indices (η) and angles of incidence (θ). It is established that R and T can be equal when R = T = 0.5, which occurs under specific conditions related to the refractive indices of the two media involved. The discussion emphasizes the importance of substituting R = T into the equations to explore the implications.

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Homework Statement


Under what conditions would the reflectance, R, and the transmittance, T, be equal to each other at normal incidence at an interface? What would be the values of R and T under these conditions?

Homework Equations


Rs = |rs|2

Ts = |ts|2 η2cosθt / η1cosθi

Rs + Ts = 1

rs = η2cosθi - η1cosθt / η2cosθi + η1cosθt

ts = 1 + rs

t & r = Fresnel coefficients
R = Reflectance
T = Transmittance
η = refractive indicies

The Attempt at a Solution


I've been given these equations and the ts makes me think that there are no conditions in which transmittance can be equal to each other at normal incidence at an interface.

The second part of this question, 'What would be the values of R and T under these conditions?' makes me think I'm wrong, but I don't understand how they could be equal...
 
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If you talk about light, see Brewster's angle definition.
 
Why would the ts lead you to think there are no conditions such that R=T?
Have you tried putting R=T in the equations and checking?
 

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