Young's interference experiment problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on Young's interference experiment, specifically analyzing the interference patterns produced by two coherent sources, S1 and S2, emitting radio waves of wavelength λ and separated by 1.5λ. The key equations for determining bright and dark fringes are provided: ΔL = dsinθ mλ for bright fringes and ΔL = dsinθ (m + 0.5)λ for dark fringes. The participants explore the nature of interference along three distinct paths, questioning how to apply the principles of interference to moving paths rather than stationary surfaces.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave interference principles
  • Familiarity with Young's double-slit experiment
  • Knowledge of the equations for constructive and destructive interference
  • Basic trigonometry for analyzing angles and distances
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of interference patterns in Young's experiment
  • Learn about the impact of path length differences on interference
  • Explore applications of interference in modern physics, such as in optics
  • Investigate the effects of phase shifts on interference patterns
USEFUL FOR

Students studying wave mechanics, physics educators, and anyone interested in the principles of wave interference and its applications in experimental physics.

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Homework Statement


Figure 35-25 shows two sources S1 and S2 that emit radio waves of wavelength λ in all directions. The sources are exactly in phase and are separated by a distance equal to 1.5λ. The vertical broken line is the perpendicular bisector of the distance between the sources. (a) If we start at the indicated start point and travel along path 1, does the interference produce a maximum all along the path, a minimum all along the path, or alternating maxima and minima? Repeat for (b) path 2 and (c) path 3.

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Homework Equations


\DeltaL = dsin\theta m\lambda - bright fringes
\DeltaL = dsin\theta (m+.5)\lambda - dark fringes

The Attempt at a Solution


I'm really not quite sure how to apply the concepts from Young's experiment to this problem. I know how interference produces minima and maxima on a stationary surface a set distance away, but I'm not sure how to relate that to a moving path perpendicular to where that stationary surface would be.
 
Last edited:
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Hey where's the diagram?
 
Sorry it showed up for me. Should work now.
 

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