Thin film diffraction - to start

In summary, thin film diffraction is a phenomenon that occurs when light passes through a thin film, creating interference patterns. It is affected by factors such as film thickness, light wavelength, refractive indices, and angle of incidence. This phenomenon has practical applications in various industries, such as the production of anti-reflective coatings and optical filters. Thin film diffraction is unique in that it occurs only in thin films and its interference patterns are highly dependent on film thickness.
  • #1
big_boi
4
0
Thin film diffraction -- need help to start

Homework Statement



I attached a picture of the problem, could anyone tell how I would begin to proceed with this problem? I believe that it is more complicated than simply a Snell's law problem, due to the thin film of oil.

Thanks for your consideration.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 

Attachments

  • fr 3.gif
    fr 3.gif
    47.3 KB · Views: 491
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2


All you need is snell's law. However, you will need to use it twice.
 

1. What is thin film diffraction?

Thin film diffraction is a phenomenon that occurs when light passes through a thin film, causing interference patterns to form. This occurs due to the difference in refractive index between the film and its surroundings.

2. How does thin film diffraction work?

When light passes through a thin film, some of it is reflected off the top surface while the rest enters the film and is reflected off the bottom surface. The reflected light waves interfere with each other, creating a pattern of light and dark fringes.

3. What factors affect thin film diffraction?

The thickness of the film, the wavelength of light, and the refractive indices of the film and its surroundings all affect thin film diffraction. The angle of incidence of the light and the type of film material also play a role.

4. What are the practical applications of thin film diffraction?

Thin film diffraction has many practical applications, including in the production of anti-reflective coatings for lenses and solar panels, as well as in the creation of holograms and optical filters. It is also used in the study of materials and their properties.

5. How is thin film diffraction different from other types of diffraction?

Thin film diffraction is unique in that it occurs specifically in thin films, whereas other types of diffraction may occur in a variety of materials. Additionally, the interference patterns in thin film diffraction are highly dependent on the thickness of the film, making it a useful tool for studying the properties of thin films.

Similar threads

Effect on visibility of thin films due to interference
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
2
Replies
35
Views
1K
Thin film reflection of light
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
Thin film interference and external / internal reflection
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
Finding the Minimum Thickness for Destructive Interference in Thin Films
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
5K
Interference in Thin Films: Grade 12 Optics Review
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
5K
Thin film constructive interference
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
3K
Thin film appears red, thickness of this part?
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
2K
What is the equation for constructive interference in thin film interference?
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
Thin-Film Interference (2 Wavelengths)
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
14
Views
2K
Constructive/Destructive Interference in a Thin Oil Film
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top