Destructive interference and energy conservation

Question

In case of interference, we know, energy is neither destroyed, nor created; but only redistributed. But in the case of an extremely thin film, due to a reflection and hence a phase difference of $pi$, the film always appears dark due to destructive interference. So, where does the energy go?

anna v · Accepted Answer

The logical answer is : into an increase in the motion of the atoms on which individual photons scattered off the thin film, i.e. heat.

This is a fascinating similar phenomenon with monochromatic laser light showing destructive interference. It is instructive to look, as it shows the quantum mechanical dependence of light.

Destructive interference and energy conservation

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