By varying the spacing between two surfaces, one of which is disposed in
front of the other, an interferometric modulator selectively creates
constructive and/or destructive interference between light waves
reflecting off the two surfaces. The desired spacing can be achieved by
deforming one or both surfaces. A heating element associated with a
particular surface causes the deformation by heating the material that
forms one or both of the surfaces. By varying the amount of applied heat,
the amount of deformation is varied, thus allowing the distance between
the surfaces to be controlled and thereby creating constructive and/or
destructive interference as desired.