Why is a $\pi$ phase added on reflection and why do things change with absorption?

Asked Sep 23 '13 at 06:24

Active Sep 23 '13 at 09:09

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Mathematically, how does a $\pi$ phase shift appear upon reflection of light off a optically denser medium?
Why is it always $\pi$?
If the medium is absorptive it is no longer $\pi$?

edited Sep 23 '13 at 09:09

Emilio Pisanty

asked Sep 23 '13 at 06:24

Anonymous

0 Answers0