The interference of light and diffraction

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the interference of light and diffraction, specifically addressing the path difference (Δr) for dark and bright regions on a screen. For a dark region at point P, the path difference is defined as Δr = (m + 0.5)λ, where m is an integer. For a bright region with one other bright region between O and P, the path difference is confirmed to be Δr = 2λ. The key equations involved are x = Δr = d sinƟ, which relates the path difference to the angle of diffraction.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave interference principles
  • Familiarity with light wavelength (λ) and path difference concepts
  • Knowledge of the diffraction equation x = Δr = d sinƟ
  • Basic grasp of bright and dark fringe formation in interference patterns
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of wave interference in detail
  • Learn about the conditions for constructive and destructive interference
  • Explore the applications of diffraction in optical instruments
  • Investigate the mathematical derivation of the interference pattern equations
USEFUL FOR

Students studying optics, physics educators, and anyone interested in understanding light interference and diffraction patterns.

Sox281212
Messages
9
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xft1/v/t1.0-9/11161364_10206082495958864_2429387894279713850_n.jpg?oh=40982e4e4e7647918991060b6f630acc&oe=55C1808A&__gda__=1439347320_8abd4b5ce66baee04bbc345aef15ec68
In terms of the wavelength of the light λ, what is the value for the path difference x = r1 – r2 if at the point P on the screen there is:

a. a dark region (and no other dark region between O and P)?

b. a bright region, with one other bright region between O and P?

Homework Equations


x = Δr = d sinƟ

The Attempt at a Solution


I don't understand this at all? could someone give me a pointer to begin with please, thanks!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
update:
okay i think for part B, Δr= 2λ ? could someone confirm if this is correct or incorrect?? thanks!
 
Sox281212 said:
update:
okay i think for part B, Δr= 2λ ? could someone confirm if this is correct or incorrect?? thanks!
Yes.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
Replies
10
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
9
Views
1K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
844
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
5K