When to Use Maxima or Minima Equations in Thin-Film Interference?

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In thin-film interference, the equations for maxima and minima depend on the film's thickness and the order of interference. The maxima equation is used for bright fringes, while the minima equation is for dark fringes, with specific values of m indicating the order of interference. The discussion highlights confusion over whether to use the bright or dark fringe equations and how to determine the correct approach for calculating film thickness. The participant calculated thickness values for both bright and dark fringes but was unsure about the correct interpretation of results. Understanding when to apply each equation is crucial for solving interference problems effectively.
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Homework Statement



[PLAIN]http://img135.imageshack.us/img135/6027/physicsch3569.png

Homework Equations



2L = (m + 0.5) (λ/n) for m = 0, 1, 2, ... (maxima - bright film in air)
2L = m(λ/n) for m = 0, 1, 2, ... (minima - dark film in air)

The Attempt at a Solution



Bright
2L = (10 + 0.5)(630E-9/1.5)
L = 2.205E-6 m

Dark
2L = 9(630E-9/1.5)
L = 1.89E-6 m

Is this the right approach? I was thinking the change in film thickness would be the difference between the two L values. But the book gives the answer as 1.89 E-6 m. Which is what I got for the Dark set of fringes. So was I supposed to negate the bright ones or did I use the wrong approach here?
 
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Someone told me to use the maxima equation with values of m being 0 and 9 and take the difference. I get the answer in the book then. But, how do you know when to use the maxima or minima equations for questions like this? I understand why we using 0 to 9 as the m values instead of 0 to 10, because 0-9 is 10 fringes. At least I think that's the reasoning behind it.
 
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