Conceptual Physics (12th Edition)

Published by Addison-Wesley
ISBN 10: 0321909100
ISBN 13: 978-0-32190-910-7

Chapter 29 - Reading Check Questions (Comprehension) - Page 559-560: 13

Answer

Interference of light waves accounts for the iridescence of these films.

Work Step by Step

These colors are caused by interference. Light waves reflect at the front and back surfaces, and some colors interfere constructively, while others interfere destructively. This is discussed on pages 553-554.
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