Thin film interference reflection

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around thin film interference, specifically focusing on a coating with a refractive index of n1 = 1.27 applied to n2 = 1.50 glass. The original poster presents two questions regarding the thickness of the coating that results in reflection maxima at specific wavelengths and the corresponding reflection minimum.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the conditions for achieving reflection maxima and minima, referencing equations related to path differences and interference. Some question the application of the equations for determining the thickness and the wavelengths associated with minima.

Discussion Status

There are attempts to clarify the relationship between the thickness of the coating and the wavelengths of light, with some participants suggesting that the path difference must meet specific criteria for destructive interference. The discussion includes various interpretations of the problem, with no explicit consensus reached on the second part of the question.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the conditions for interference, including the transition of light from a medium of lower to higher refractive index, and the implications this has for the reflection characteristics of the thin film. There is an acknowledgment of the need for further exploration of the wavelengths involved in the reflection minimum.

meaowwuff
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Homework Statement


A coating of n1 = 1.27 material is to be added to n2 = 1.50 glass, in order to make it "irridescent."
a) What is the thinnest layer of material which will have a reflection maximum for normal-incidence light at BOTH 400 and 600 nm (vacuum) wavelength?
b) This thickness will have a reflection minimum at some wavelength between 400 and 600 nm. What is the wavelength of the reflection minimum?

2. Homework Equations

2*d=lambda(coating), 2*d=lambda(coating)/2

The Attempt at a Solution



I got the first part correct and the answer was 472 nm but I can't get b right. For b I did 2*d=lambda(coating)/2 since it says that the reflection will be minimum.
 
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2. Homework Equations

2*d=lambda(coating), 2*d=lambda(coating)/2

The Attempt at a Solution



I got the first part correct and the answer was 472 nm but I can't get b right. For b I did 2*d=lambda(coating)/2 since it says that the reflection will be minimum.[/QUOTE]

In order to get minimum reflectance, the path difference between the directly reflected wave and that, which reflects from the glass-layer interface has to be odd number times half of lambda(coating) .
 
Destructive interference occurs at ##2d =\lambda/2##, but also at other path differences...
 
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In your problem light moves from low u to high u.reflection minimum means the part of incident rays reflected will suffer destructive interference .hence 2ud=n(lambda).
 

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