Thin film interference - Minimum thickness

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the minimum thickness of a thin film with a refractive index of 1.2, applied to a lens with a refractive index of 1.5, to minimize reflection at a wavelength of 480 nm. The solution involves using the thin film interference formula, specifically \(2\mu d=(n+1/2)\lambda\), where \(n=0\) yields a minimum thickness of \(10^{-7} m\). The problem illustrates the principles of thin film interference and the importance of considering reflections from both the top and bottom surfaces of the film.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of thin film interference principles
  • Familiarity with refractive indices and their implications
  • Knowledge of wavelength measurements in nanometers
  • Ability to manipulate and apply interference equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the thin film interference formula
  • Explore applications of thin film coatings in optics
  • Learn about the effects of varying refractive indices on interference patterns
  • Investigate other wavelengths and their impact on film thickness calculations
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in optics, physicists, and engineers involved in lens design and coatings, particularly those interested in minimizing reflection through thin film applications.

Saitama
Messages
4,244
Reaction score
93

Homework Statement


A lens (##\mu##=1.5) is coated with a thin film of refractive index 1.2 in order to reduce the reflection from the surface at ##\lambda=480 nm##. Find the minimum thickness of the film which will minimize the intensity of reflected. [Assume near normal incidence]

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


I don't really know how to begin with this. It looks to me that this is related to thin film interference but I have never dealt with three different mediums while solving problems related to this.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Pranav-Arora said:
It looks to me that this is related to thin film interference but I have never dealt with three different mediums while solving problems related to this.
It's just thin film interference. All you need to worry about are the reflections from the top and bottom surfaces of the film.
 
Doc Al said:
It's just thin film interference. All you need to worry about are the reflections from the top and bottom surfaces of the film.

Is it simply a plug and chug question then? :-p

I get the right answer using the formula ##2\mu d=(n+1/2)\lambda## and putting ##n=0##. I get ##d=10^{-7} m##. Thanks Doc Al! :smile:
 

Similar threads

Replies
7
Views
6K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
4K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
5K
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
3K