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Chapter 21: Problem 12

Briefly explain how reflection losses of transparent materials are minimized by thin surface coatings.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: Reflection losses of transparent materials are minimized using thin surface coatings, specifically anti-reflective coatings, which create a gradual change in the refractive index across the boundary between the transparent material and the surrounding medium. This reduces the difference in refractive indices and minimizes reflection losses.

Step by step solution

01

Introduction

Reflection occurs when light strikes a material's surface and bounces back into the medium from where it came. This results in a decrease in the light transmitted through the material. In transparent materials, such as glasses and high-quality lenses, this may cause undesirable effects. To minimize reflection losses, thin surface coatings are applied to the surfaces of transparent materials.
02

Reflection losses

Reflection losses in transparent materials are mainly due to the difference in refractive indexes between the transparent material and the surrounding medium (usually air). The larger the difference in refractive indexes, the higher the reflection losses. To counteract this, thin surface coatings are used to gradually change the refractive index across the boundary, reducing the reflection losses.
03

Thin surface coatings

Thin surface coatings are layers of material applied to the surfaces of transparent materials to minimize reflection losses. These coatings consist of layers with varying refractive indices, creating a gradual change in the refractive index between the transparent material and the surrounding medium. The optimal thickness varies depending on the specific application and material.
04

Anti-reflective coatings

Anti-reflective (AR) coatings are the most common type of thin surface coatings used to minimize reflection losses. They are made from materials with a lower refractive index than the transparent material they are applied to. This reduces the difference in refractive indices between the transparent material and the surrounding medium, leading to a reduction in reflection losses.
05

Conclusion

Reflection losses in transparent materials are minimized using thin surface coatings, which create a gradual change in the refractive index across the boundary between the transparent material and the surrounding medium. This reduces the difference in refractive indices and minimizes reflection losses. Anti-reflective coatings are the most common type of thin surface coatings used to achieve this reduction in reflection losses.

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