How Does m=2 Affect the Path Difference in Double-Slit Interference?

AI Thread Summary
In double-slit interference, when m=2 corresponds to a bright fringe, it indicates that one wave travels two wavelengths longer than the other wave from the opposite slit. This occurs due to the differing path lengths of the waves as they travel at an angle from the slits. The longer path results in constructive interference, leading to the observed bright fringe. Understanding this concept is crucial for analyzing interference patterns in experiments. The relationship between path difference and wavelength is fundamental to the double-slit experiment.
lha08
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Homework Statement


I was just wondering in double-slit interference, when it's a bright fringe, let's say m=2, does that mean that one wave coming from one of the slits is traveling 2 wavelengths longer than than the other wavelength coming from the other slit? How does that work?
Thanks


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lha08 said:

Homework Statement


I was just wondering in double-slit interference, when it's a bright fringe, let's say m=2, does that mean that one wave coming from one of the slits is traveling 2 wavelengths longer than than the other wavelength coming from the other slit?
Yes, that's exactly what it means.

How does that work?
Thanks
It works because the waves coming out of the slit travel at some angle, so that one of the paths is longer. See the figure here:
http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Double_Slit_Experiment.png

Hope that helps?
 
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