Why Is the Fringe at the Narrow End of a Wedge Always Dark?

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The discussion focuses on understanding why the fringe at the narrow end of a wedge is always dark, emphasizing the importance of phase difference in interference patterns. Key factors include the phase change upon reflection and the distance light travels when passing through the wedge. The equation for the distance between dark fringes, denoted as /\x, is derived from these considerations. The geometry of the wedge, defined by its length L and maximum width D, plays a crucial role in determining the interference effects. Overall, a thorough examination of these factors is essential for grasping the phenomenon of dark fringes in wedge interference.
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For a solid wedge of material of length L and maximum width D (ie, a triangle) how would one obtain an equation for /\x, the distance between dark fringes?

For wedge fringes, how come the fringe at the narrow end is always dark?
 
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You need to consider two factors that determine the phase difference--and thus the interference--between the reflections at each boundary:

What is the phase change upon reflection?

What distance does the light travel in passing (twice) through the wedge?​
Read up with these factors in mind.
 

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