Question

A transparent oil with index of refraction 1.15 spills on the surface of water (index of refraction 1.33), producing a maximum of reflection with normally incident violet light (wavelength 400 nm in air). Assuming the maximum occurs in the first order, determine the thickness of the oil slick.

Answer 1

The thickness of the oil slick. t = 173.91 nm

Step-by-step explanation:

Oil film thickness t is given by the equation

`t = (\lambda)/(2n)`

where λ = wavelength of incident light in air = 400 nm

and n = index of refraction of oil

therefore,

`t =(400)/(2* 1.15)\\t= 173.91 nm`

The thickness of the oil slick. t = 173.91 nm