Why need a screen to display interference

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the necessity of a viewing screen to observe interference patterns, particularly in the context of Young's double slit experiment. While it is not essential to have a screen to perceive interference, a screen is crucial for accurately measuring fringe separation and distances from the double slits. The conversation also touches on the nature of visible light and the invisibility of electromagnetic fields, clarifying that light fringes in interference patterns are not directly visible waveforms but rather the result of light's wave properties interacting with matter.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Young's double slit experiment
  • Basic knowledge of wave-particle duality in light
  • Familiarity with interference patterns and fringe separation
  • Concept of electromagnetic fields and their invisibility
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of Young's double slit experiment
  • Explore the concept of wave-particle duality in quantum mechanics
  • Learn about measuring fringe separation in interference patterns
  • Investigate the properties of electromagnetic fields and their implications in optics
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators demonstrating wave phenomena, and anyone interested in the principles of light and interference patterns.

alkmini
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Homework Statement


why do we need a viewing screen in order to see interference patterns? why can we see interference patterns through our fingers when we look at a distant light source and we don't need a screen in that case?
what do we mean by visible light? can we see the wave itself, crests and toughs as we see in water waves? If we don't see it, is it because the wavelength is too small or because electromagnetic fields are invisible? if electric and magnetic fields are invisible then what are the light fringes in interference patterns?
:confused:


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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you are quite correct, it is not essential to have a viewing screen but if you want to make measurements of fringe separation, distance from double slits etc then you need to have the pattern visible on a screen of some sort.
The traditional school demonstration of Young's double slits experiment is done with a screen
 
thanks a a lot
 

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