Find the phase difference in terms of d, lambda, theta

Thread starter joelkato1605
Start date Mar 15, 2021
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Difference Lambda Phase Phase difference Terms Theta

In summary, the formula for finding phase difference in terms of d, lambda, and theta is: Phase Difference = (2π/λ) * d * sin(θ). The value of phase difference indicates the difference in the position of two waves with the same wavelength (λ) and amplitude, caused by a difference in the path length (d) and the angle of incidence (θ). Phase difference can be negative, indicating a shift in the position of one wave relative to the other. The phase difference between two waves determines the resulting interference pattern, with a multiple of 2π creating constructive interference and an odd multiple of π creating destructive interference. The value of phase difference changes with different values of d, lambda, and theta, increasing

Mar 15, 2021

joelkato1605

Homework Statement: Referring to Figure 4.8, what is the phase difference φ between S¯1 and S¯2 in terms of d,
θ and λ.

Relevant Equations: See attached image.

So in figure 4.8 the path difference between the two waves is d*sin(theta), then is the phase difference just (d*sin(theta)*2*pi)/lambda?

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Mar 15, 2021

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joelkato1605 said:

So in figure 4.8 the path difference between the two waves is d*sin(theta)

This is a good approximation for the path difference when ##d << x##.

then is the phase difference just (d*sin(theta)*2*pi)/lambda?

Yes

1. What is the formula for finding the phase difference in terms of d, lambda, and theta?

The formula for finding the phase difference is given by: phase difference = (2πd/lambda) * cos(theta)

2. How do I determine the value of d in the phase difference formula?

The value of d refers to the distance between two points where the wave is being measured. This can be the distance between two sources of waves or the distance between a source and an observer.

3. Can I use any unit of measurement for d and lambda in the phase difference formula?

Yes, as long as the units for both d and lambda are consistent, any unit of measurement can be used in the formula. However, it is important to keep track of the units and convert them if necessary to ensure accurate results.

4. What is the significance of theta in the phase difference formula?

Theta represents the angle at which the waves are being measured. It is important to take into account the angle of measurement as it can greatly affect the phase difference between two waves.

5. Can the phase difference be negative?

Yes, the phase difference can be negative. A negative phase difference indicates that one wave is lagging behind the other in terms of its position in the wave cycle. This can happen when the waves are out of sync or when one wave has a longer wavelength than the other.