Interference Condition for Thin Films

Reflection Phase Change

Reflected light will experience a 180 degree phase change when it reflects from a medium of higher index of refraction and no phase change when it reflects from a medium of smaller index. This phase change is important in the interference which occurs in thin films, the design of anti-reflection coatings, interference filters, and thin film mirrors.

Reflection Phase Change

Reflected light will experience a 180 degree phase change when it reflects from a medium of higher index of refraction and no phase change when it reflects from a medium of smaller index. This phase change is important in the interference which occurs in thin films, the design of anti-reflection coatings, interference filters, and thin film mirrors.