Incandescent Light Double Slit Experiment -Will Interference Occur?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the feasibility of observing interference patterns in a double slit experiment using incandescent light sources. Participants conclude that interference is unlikely due to the non-monochromatic nature of incandescent light and the constant variation in the electric field direction. The consensus is that a single light source is necessary for consistent phase relationships, which are crucial for observable interference patterns.

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  • Understanding of the double slit experiment
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  • Basic principles of wave interference
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josephcollins
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hi ppl,
I was wondering. In a double slit experiment, we fire light rays through two slits using two incandescent lamps. Would the interference phenomenon be observed? I thought no, is it to do with the wavelength of incandescent light being outside the spectrum? Could someone help with this problem, thanks
 
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It would hard to get an interference pattern because the direction of the field would be changing constantly. The relative phase must be same hence it only works with 1 lamp.

As far as I know its nothing to do with the wavelength, just the fact that the field is not polarised.
 
Well, there's also the fact that light from an incandescent lamp is not monochromatic. You might get interference patterns from various different frequencies, but I expect they'd overlap to such an extent that they'd be invisible.
 

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