It can lead to destructive interference if the path length difference is also considered.

Thicker regions tend to reflect longer wavelengths (reds, oranges).

It minimizes unwanted reflections by causing destructive interference of reflected light.

Maximizes interference effects due to the maximized path length difference.

Reduces the path length difference, affecting the interference pattern.

Interference that occurs when light interacts with a film of thickness comparable to the wavelength of light.

The passage of light through a medium.

The bouncing back of light from a boundary between two media.

The process where light energy is taken in by a medium and converted into other forms of energy, such as heat.

A measure of how much the speed of light is reduced inside a medium compared to its speed in a vacuum.

When two waves are in phase, their amplitudes add to create a larger amplitude.

When two waves are out of phase, their amplitudes subtract, potentially canceling each other out.

1. Light strikes a thin film. 2. Part of the light is reflected at the first interface. 3. Part of the light is transmitted and reflects at the second interface. 4. The two reflected waves interfere constructively or destructively.

1. A thin film is applied to a surface. 2. The film's thickness is one-quarter of the light's wavelength in the coating. 3. Light reflected from the two surfaces of the coating undergoes destructive interference. 4. Reflection is minimized.