“interference
———
12.1 INTRODUCTION (NATURE OF LIGHT)
Upto the middle of the seventeenth century it was generally believed that light consisted of a stream of
corpuscles, These corpuscles could penetrate transparent matcrials and were reflected ftom the surfaces
of opaque materials. When they entered the eye, they caused the sensation of light.
Huygen in 1670 showed that the laws of reflection and refraction could be explained on the basis of
‘wave theory. The wave theory could however not be immediately accepted, It was objected that if light
were a wave motion, one should be able to see around comers, since wave can bend around obstacles in
their path. We know now that the wavelengths of light waves are so stall that the bending, which acta.
ally does take place, is so small that itis not ordinarily observed. However, the bending of light waves
around the edges of an object (diffraction) was noted by Grimaldi and interpreted by Hooke in terms of
awave picture, but its significance was not recognised at that time.
Inabout 1827, Young’s experiments enabled him to measure the wavelength of the waves, and Fresnel
showed thatthe rectilinear propagation of light along with the diffraction effects observed by Grimaldi,
could be explained if light was considered as waves of short wavelengths.
In 1873, Maxwell suggested that light consisted of electromagnetic wave of extremely short wave-
lengths. After some years, Hertz, succeeded in producing short wavelength waves of electromagnetic
origin and showed that they possessed all the characteristics of light wave, such as refraction, reflec.
tion, polarisation, ete, This Maxwell's electromagnetic theory of light was experimentally justified, The
slectromagnetic theory, however, failed to account for the phenomenon of photoelectric emission,
Einstein (1905) postulated that energy in a light beam was concentrated in small packet or photons.
The photoelectric effect thus consisted inthe transfer of energy from a photon to an electron. Compton in
1921, determined the motion of a photon and a single electron, both before and after a collision between
them, and found that they behaved like material bodies having kinetic energy and momentum, both of
Which were conserved during collision, The photoelectric effect and Compton effect thus demanded a
eturn to a corpuscular theory of light.
', Thus, the present scenario is to accept the fact that light is dualistic in nature, The phenomenon of
light propagation may best be explained by the electromagnetic wave theory, while the interaction of
~ Tight with matter in the processes of emission and absorption is a corpuscular phenomenon,396 @ Engineering Physics
42.2. INTERFERENCE OF LIGHT
When two waves ofthe same frequency having a constant initial phase difference traverse simultaneously
ina medium superpose each other, the resultant intensity of light is not distributed uniformly in space,
This modification in intensity is called interference. At some points of the medium the superposition
takes place in such a way that the resultant intensity is greater than the sum of intensities of individual
‘waves. This type of interference is called constructive interference, while at some points of the medium
the resaltant intensity is found to be less than the sum of the intensities of individual waves. This is clas-
sified as destructive interference.
42.3 YOUNG’S EXPERIMENT (DIVISION OF WAVEFRONT)
‘Thomas Young, in 1801, demonstrated the phenomenon of interference of light as shown in Fig. 12,1. The
sunlight was fist allowed to pass through a pinhole S, and then through two pinholes S, and S, placed at
sufficient distance away from S and the light was received on a screen. The two sets of spherical waves
emerging from S, and S, interfered with each other and a few coloured fringes of varying intensity were
observed on the screen.
‘Asan improvement of the original arrangement, the pinholes S, and S, are replaced by natrow slits and
sunlight by a monochtomatic light. The interfering waves are then cylindrical and a number of alternate
dark and bright fringes running parallel to the length of the slits are observed on the screen,
Explanation
Onthe basis of wave theory of light, the formation of datk and bright fringes can be explained. The cylindrical
‘wavefronts starting from S falls on S, and S,, According to Huygens principle, §, and S, become centres of
Secondary wavelets i., two cylindrical wavefronts emerge ont from S, and S,, Their radii increase as they
move away from S, and ,, so that they superimpose more and more on each other. At points where crest
(or trough) dae to one fells ona crest (or trough) due tothe other, the resultant amplitude is the sum of the
amplitudes due to each wave separately. The intensity, which is proportional tothe square of the amplitude,
at these points is therefore a maximum, Thisis the case of constructive interference. At points where acrest
ue to one falls on a trough due to the other, the resultant amplitude is the difference of the amplitudes due
to separate waves and the resultant intensity is a minimum. This is the case of destructive interference.
Fig. 12.1. Young's experiment showing the phenomenon of interferenceInterference @ 397
In Fig, 12.1, the solid ares indicate the crests while the dotted-ares indicate the troughs, The. soild’
lines are the loci of the points of maximum intensity and are called anti-nodal lines. The broken line
are the loci of the points of minimum intensity and are called nodal lines, However, actually these lines;’
are hyperbola. The intersections of these lines on the screen give the positions of bright and dark fringes
which occur alternately at equal distances.
‘Young’s experiment demonstrates both the diffraction of light waves at the slits and the interference
between the light waves emerging from the slits.
12,4 RESULTANT INTENSITY DUE TO SUPERPOSITION OF TWO INTERFERING
WAVES:
Lot S'be a narrow,slit illuminated by a monochromatic light source, and 5, and S, are two similar parallel
slits very close together and equidistant from S (Fig, 12.2).
Pp
Fig. 12.2 Superposition of two waves
Let the waves from S reach at S, and S, in the same phase such that the waves proceed as if they started
from S, and S,, We have to find out the resultant intensity at P on a screen placed parallel to Sand S,,
12.4.1 Analysis
Leta, and a, be the amplitudes at P due to the waves from S, and S,, respectively. The waves reaching at
P will have different paths S,P and S,P. Hence, they will superimpose with a phase difference 6 given by
b= 2 xpath difference
-2 x (S,P-S,P)= 2 xSM (12.1)
where A is the wavelength of light used.
The individual displacements at P will then be represented by
y, =a, sin ot
Y, = 4, sin (ot + 5)
where a 27 is the common frequency of the two waves,
Due to the principle of superposition, the resultant displacement
VENT,
=a, sin of +a, sin (oot + 8)
=a,sin ax +a, (sin at cos 5+ cos a sin 8)398 @ Engineering Physics
= a, sin at +a, cos dsin ai + a, sin 5 cos a.
= (a,+a, cos 6) sin ct + (a, sin 8) cos ct
Let us make a change in constants as
a,+ a, 008 S= R cos (12.2)
and a, sin 5= R sin @ . (12.3)
where R and @are new constants, This will give
y= Ros Osin a + Rsin 8c0s.aF
y= Rsin (at + 8) (12.4)
Hence superposition of two simple harmonic waves will not change the frequency and nature of re-
sultant wave.
Squaring and adding Eqs. (12.2) and (12.3) will give the resultant amplitude R as
Ricos? 6+ R? sint O= (a, +, cos 8+ (a,sin dF
> Re=ai+ a+ 2a,a, 008 (12.5)
Therefore, resultant intensity at P is
Toe R?
> T=kR
where fis the constant of proportionality whose value is found to be unity if the medium of travelling
of the waves is same. That is,
I=R
or T=a?+a2+2a,a, cos (12.6)
42.4.2 Conditions for Maxima and Minima
Itis clear from Eq. (12.6) that at point P, the intensity will be a maximum whenever
cos 6=+1
or 5=2nm, n=0,1,2....
So, path difference (S,P — S,P)=nA [from Eq. (12.1)]
Thus from Eq. (12.6), we have
Tagg = Ut aE 2a,
=(@,ta,)> ata}, ie, li? hth :
Similarly, the resultant intensity will be a minimum whenever
cos 6=-1
or 5=(Qn+l)m 1=0,1,2,..
So, path difference (S, P- S,P)= (2n+ 1) 2/2.
+ This expression gives the resultant intensity at P due to two waves of amplitudes a, and a, and having a phase difference Sbetween
them,Interference @ 399
Then from Eq. (12.6), we get
I,,= 42+ a2~2aa,
=(@,-a)
a,=10a, Q
Substituting the value of a, from Eq. (2) in Eq. (1), we get
tas. (005-+4)” _ (LY? 121
Trin (10a,—a, 81
In an interference pattern, the amplitude of intensity variation is found to be 5% of the average intensity.
Calculate the relative intensities of the interfering sources.
Solution
Itis given that the intensity vatiation is 5% ofthe average intensity. So, if the average intensity is 100,
then the maximum intensity is 103 and the minimum intensity is 95.
— @tay) _ 105
re Gay 95
+
or Gite) _ 1 95)
(q-a)
or @, +4) = 1.051(a, ~4,) = 1.051a,— 1.0514,
or 0.051 a,=2.051 a, ~
a _ 2.051 _
a= 40a,
Therefore, the ratio of the intensities of interfering sources is
A _ af _(40a,)° _ 1600
Loa (@y 1
or J:1,= 1600:17 Interference @ 401
Two coherent sources of intensity ratio o interfere. Prove that in the interference pattern,
Zrwx—Fnin _ 2Vor
TinaxtImin +00
Solution
Let J, and J, be the intensities and a, and a, be the corresponding amplitudes of the two coherent sources,
Lh @
or faa I
ay
s a= aa w
N Foun Tain (+04)? (aya)? 2ayay
low, TL+lh. Palas a.) gaan?
‘max *!min (4 +e)" +(a,—m)? a +a?
an
_ 2@/ay)
12.5 INTERFERENCE AND CONSERVATION OF ENERGY
‘When we draw a curve between resultant intensity (1) and the phase difference 6, itis a periodic eurve
With its all highest and lowest points at (a,+ a,)? and (a,~a,)?, respectively, which are the maximum and
minimum intensities.
The average intensity between 5= 0 and 5= 2s given by
[ius [a +8 +202, c0s8)a6
leases Te
[a6 fy
2x (qf +43)
= OD = had =1,+h
Thus, the average intensity is equal to the sum of the individual intensities, ic, whatever enérgy appaiy’
cutly disappears at minima is actually present at the maxima, Thus, the phenomenon of interferendeig@
consistent with the law of conservation of energy (Fig, 12.3).402 @ Engineering Physics
Tép -4p 29 0 20 4p 6p—d
se difference graph
YOUNG'S EXPERIMENT
Let be a narrow slit illuminated by monochromatic light and S, and S, be Iwo parallel slits very close
together and equidistant from S. The light waves from S, an S, produce an interference pattern ona screen
{XY placed parallel to 5, and S, as shown in Fig. 12.4
Fig. 12.3 Resultant intensity and pha:
42.6 DETERMINATION OF FRINGE WIDTH IN
s
Fig. 12.4 Analytical treatment of Young's experiment
From Fig. 12.4,
(SPY = (S,My + (PMP
=Di+(+dP
_ (xtay
=D [» a
\i2
(xtdy
Spa oor
Since D >> (¢-+d), the binoraial expansion up to two terms will give
32
SP= of: + wear)
(xtay
2D
=D+Interference @ 403
2
Similarly, SP = D+ so
2xd
5P-Sp=
Now for maxima or bright fringes, the path difference in given by
5S,P-S,P=nA, where n=0, 1, 2,..
ad
or
or xan Ze
and for dark fringes, i.e, for minima te Path difference in given by
, SP-SP= n+ 04, wheren= 0,1,2,..
2
= = ent
or a= Zan+nt
Now let x, and.x, , denote the distances of nth and (1 +1)th bright fringes, then
Dh
Dh
2d
Di
and Ft) Fe
Spacing between mth and (n + 1)th bright fringe or successive bright fringes is
Dh _ Dh
Boor DOG "od 2d
Itis independent of n. Hence, spacing between any two consecutive bright fringes is same. Similarly, it
can be shown that spacing between two consecutive dark fringes will also be Dh/2d .
The spacing between any two consecutive bright and dark fringes is called the fringe width (). Thus,
Di
5-2 aad) (2.7
12.7 SHAPE OF INTERFERENCE FRINGES
: At point P on the screen (Fig. 12.5), there will be a maximum or minimum, respectively, for intensity’
=» according as
SP-SP=na
or S,P-S8,P=(Qn+ ng404 @ Engineering Physics
Thus, for a given value of n, one can write
S,p - S,P= Constant = A (say)
Let the coordinates of S,,5,, and P be (d, 0}, 4, 0), and (% y), respectively. Then,
sp=[c+ay+y Y? ena s,P=[G-a"+ yl?
=[eratay'T” [eae] =a
2
(tay y= {[w-a* sy]? val
Y
Fig. 12.5 Shape of interference fringes:
git d?+ dt y?=x +h 2xd yt M+ 2[Q- d+ yA
Axd= A+ 2A [e- d?+ 7)?
2A [(e—d)?+y"J!2 = xd - AP
Squaring on both sides will give
. 4M (ed) +P] = At + 610d? - Bd
> 4A2x? + ANd? Baked + 4b2y = At + 6d? — BAe
dx? (Ad? —A2) — Aa? = Aare
(4d A?) — Aty? = Wd?
bad
2 2
y
> a
y(aia? ~ye) &
hich is the equation of a hyperbola with S, and S, as foc. ‘Thus, the shape of the fringes in Young’s
experiment is a hyperbola.
(12.8)Interference @ 405
12.8 CONDITIONS FOR INTERFERENCE OF LIGHT
A well-defined observable interference pattern can be obtained when the constructive and destructive
interferences are maintained at maximum and zero, respectively. This can be attained by fulfilling the
following conditions:
1. Conditions for sustained interference
@ The two interfering waves should be coherent, ie., the phase difference between them must >
remain constant with time,
i) The two waves should have same frequency.
Gi) TF'the interfering waves are polarised, they must be in the same state of polarisation.
2. Conditions for observation
G) ‘The separation between the light sources (2d) should be as small as possible,
Gi) The distance D of the screen from the two sources should be quite large,
3. Conditions for good contrast
() ‘The amplitudes of the interfering tays should be equal or at least nearly equal.
(i) The two sources must be narrow.
12.9 COHERENT SOURCES
When two light sources produce waves which have a sharply defined* phase difference that remains
constant with time they are said to be coherent. Under this condition, the resultant intensity ata point is
obtained by squaring the veotor sum of the two amplitudes, taking the constant phase difference at the
point into account.
12.9.1 No Interference by Independent Sources.
‘Two independent sources cannot produce interference pattern because there is no steady phase difference
between the light waves emitted from them,
Every source of light is made up of enormous number of atoms which are'the ultimate cause of ra-
iation, When an atom gets energy fiom some external source, one or mote of its electrons go to some
higher-energy state only for about 10°s, after which the electron. jumps back to the lower orbit, resulting
in emission of radiation. This implies that an atom does not emit a continuous train of light waves but at
short intervals. These short intervals are different for different atoms. Thus, the phase of the light wave
from a source varies with time in a random way.
Therefore, the phases of the waves from two independent sources will be changing independently of
cach other, Le., phase difference is not steady. Hence, there is no possibility of steady interference fringes,
12.10 PRODUCTION OF COHERENT SOURCES
Some methods for creating coherent sources of light are as follows:
a
* When the phase diftence between two Tight waves ariving at pont vary with time randomly, the wave sloos‘até sad to be
‘Peoheret, In this caso ata certain instant, conditions may be right for maximtim intensity and siter avery short time 10*s they
Ima Be ght for minimum intensity and hiss tr foray poi This resus into waform iumnation ted go esc ates wile
‘:,,9bserved. In this condition, the resulta intensity at any points equal othe sum ofthe individual inteoation:406 @ Enginecring Physics
(Young's double slit: In this method (Fig. 12.6), two narrow slits 5, and S, receive light from the
same natrow slit S. Hence, S, and S, act as coherent sources. Here, the two coherent sources are
created by the method of division of wavefront.
¥ y
Fig. 12.6 Young's double slit
(ii) Liyod's single mirror: In this device (Fig. 12.7), a slit S and its virtual image S” formed by reflec-
tion at a mirror ate coherent sources. Here, the division of amplitude is used to create coherent
sources.
Ss
Fig. 12.7 Liyod’s single mirror
(ili) Fresnel’s double mirror: In this device (Fig. 12.8), two virtual images S, and S, of a single slit,
formed by reflection at two plane mirrors M, and M, inclined at a small angle to each other, ate
the coherent sources. Coherent sources are created by the division of amplitude.
a
Fig. 12.8 Fresnel's double mirror
iv) Fresnel’s biprism: In this device (Fig. 12.9), 5, and S,, which are images of a slit S formed by
refraction through a biprism, act as virtual coherent sources. These coherent sources are created
by the division of wavefront.
(¥) Michelson interferometer: In this device (Fig. 1.6, Section 1.7), a single light beam is broken
into two perpendicular light waves, one by reflection and the other by refraction through a half
silvered mitror (P), thus producing two waves of same frequency having a constant path differenceInterference @ 407
resulting into the production of fringes. Here, these coherent sources are ereated by the divisiony
- of amplitude.,
Fig.12.9 Fresnel's biprism
12.11 FRESNEL’S BIPRISM
It is a device which can produce two coherent sources for getting sustained interference. It is made from
a single plate by grinding and polishing, so that it is a single prism with one of its angles at about, 1798) vand
the otlier two obviously 30’ cach,
12.11.14. Production of Fringes
‘The arrangement for obtaining interference fringes is shown in Fig. 12.10. Sis a narrow vertical slit illu-
minated by a monochromatic light. The light is allowed to fall symmetrically on the biprism, placed at
a small distance ftom $ and it refracting edges parallel to sit The light rays emerging from the upper.
and lower halves of the prism appear to come from virtual sources S, and S,.
[From Eq, (12.7)] (12.9)
Here, a=
D
Itis clear from this expression that if 8, D, and 2dare measured, the wavelength of light can be calculated.
KR
Fig. 12.10 Fresenel's biprism arrangement for obtaining interference
12,41.2 Experimental Method for Determination of Wavelength
The experimental arrangement consists of an optical bench which carries four upright stands having
an adjustable slit, biprism, a convergent lens, and a micrometer equipped with a Ramsden’s eyepievgt
All uprights can be made to move perpendicular to the length of the optical bench and can be adjusted
to a desired height. The slit is made of least width and illuminated by a monochromatic light whose
wavelength is to be calculated.408 @ Engineering Physics
To obtain sharp fringes, following adjustments are made:
(i) The optical bench is properly levelled with the help of sources provided with the optical bench.
ii) The eyepiece is focused on the cross-wires.
ii) All the uprights are adjusted to same vertical height.
(iv) The axis of the slit is made vertical so that light can be incident normally on the biprism.
(v) The edge of the biprism and the centre of the slit are made parallel.
12.11.3 Measurements
@ Fringe width (B): Aller obtaining sharp and distinct fringes, the cross-wire of micrometer is set
at one of the bright fringes of the pattern and the reading is taken. Now the eyepiece is moved
laterally and micrometer reading is taken for certain counted fringes so that the fringe width can
be calculated as
_ Difference of micrometer readings
Number of fringes counted
(ii) Measurement of D: The distance between slitand eyepiece on the optical bench will give the value
of D.
(iii) Measurement of 2d; Displacement method is used to calculate the distance between sources. As
shown in Fig, 12.11, at position L, we have
ca
2d u .
and at position L, we have
Bu
2d»
a aa,
which gives we =1
or 2d= Jad, (12.10)
Finally, the wavelength can be calculated by the formula
2d
A=p/
5)
Fig. 12.11 Determination of 2dInterference @ 409
12.11.4 Distance between Virtual Sources SS
We know that the deviation produced in a ray through a prism of very small refracting angle is given by
8=(u-Da
where {tis the refractive index of the material. ofthe prism and aris the refracting angle measured in. Tadians,
From Fig. 12.12, it is clear from the formula
__ Are
Ane Fe aius
ot 2-24
@
or 2d=26xa
which gives 2d=2a(u~1)ar : aay
Fig. 12.12 Dependence of 2d on prism angle (a) ~
12.12 DISPLACEMENT OF FRINGES
When thin transparent plate such as glass or mica is introduced in the path of one ofthe two interfering
beams, the entire fringe pattem is displaced towards the bean in the path of which the plate is introduced.
Let S, and S, be the two coherent sources (Fig 12.13) emitting light of wavelength A. Leta thin plate
of thickness ¢ and refictive index @)be introduced in the path of light ray from S.
As the light ray ttom 5; has to travel in two media (air and plate), it must ttavel with two different
‘velocities in the path from S, to P. The distance travelled by the ray in ar is (S,Pf) while in plate itis
4 Ifthe velocity of the ray in plate be v, the time taken by the ray ftom S, to P
. _SP-t +
= SPotyt
e 3
= SP Ht ut vl
ee
= SP+-De
©
jis follows that the effective path travelled by the ray from S, to Ps [S,P + (t-1)1}, i.e. om inirodugp
ton of the thin plate, the path is increased by an amount (u ~ I)r.
‘Now at point P, the effective path difference
=S,P~[S,P+(u-D 1]410 @ Engineering Physics
=S,P-S,P-(t- lt
However, for the arrangement shown in Fig. (12.13),
2d
SP-SP= 3,
Hei
=
&
Fig.12.13 Displacement of fringes
2d
Effective path difference at P= x,—(— Ie
Ifthe point P is the centre of the nth bright fringe, we can write
225, It=nd
or soar Zu- ye .
In the absence of plate (t= 0), the distance of nth bright fringe from centre O is (2d/D) nA. Therefore,
the displacement of nth bright fringe is given by '
D
00'= Haag Dt
x
Bay (: -2)
qt Ye vB 3d (12.12)
Ttis independent of r, so that displacement is the same for all bright fringes. The same displacement can
also be obtained for dark fringes. Thus, the entire fringe pattem is shifted by a distance
P =F ye
qui be = Fade
ert eens
ooo Solved Examples ———————————
Ina Young’s double slit experiment, the angular width of a fringe found on a distant screen is 0.1% The
wavelength of light used is 6000 A. What is the spacing between the slits?Interference @ 41h
Solution
The angular fringe with (,) is given by
a4 5
Po 34
Therefore, spacing between the slits (22) is
a
a= 4
Be
where A= 6000 A=6 x 10 om
O.1xa
= 0.1°= ad
B 180
O1xe 0.1x3.14
=3.44x10%em
‘A beam of light consisting of two wavelengths 6500 and 5200 A is used to obtain interference fringes
ina Young's double slit experiment. . . 3
(@ Find the distance of the third bright fringe on the screen from the central maxinmm for the wave-
length 6500 A.
(ii) What is the least distance from the centtal maximum when the bright fringes due to both the
wavelengths coincide?
The distance between the slits is 2 mm and the distance between the plane of the slits and the screen
is 120 om.
Solution
oo ‘The position of the nth maximum is given by
Dna: : i
Og . vee
where A= 6500 A = 6.5 x 10% cm, 2d = 2 mm= 0.2 em, D = 120 cm, and n= 3.
=0.117 cm
(ii). The condition for least distance when the bright fringes due to wavelengths coincide is thatthe
difference between their order of fringe width should be 1. Therefore, “ee
_ Dak, D(athg we Was
“Og 2d 2
Hore A, = 6500 A= 6.5 x 10° om and A, = 5200 A = 5.2 x 10cm.412 @ Engineering Physics
Hence, from Eq. (2),
nh,= (n+ Day @
or 2x65 x 10% = (n+ 1)x 5.2.x 10%
or 65n=5.2n+52
or 1.3n=5.2
or n=4
Substituting the value of m in Eq, (1), we get
Dry _120%4%6.5%x10
2d 0.2
= 0.156 cm
‘A two slit Young’s experiment is done with monochromatic light of wavelength 6000 A. The slits are 2
‘mm apart and the fringes are observed on a screen placed 10 cm away from the slits, and it is found that
the interference pattem shifis by 5 mm when a transparent plate of thickness 0.5 mm is introduced in the
path of one of the rays. What is the refractive index of the transparent plate?
Solution
The shift of interference fringe is given by
D 7
ag toDe (ay
Here D:= 10 cm, 2d=2 mm = 0.2 cm, t= 0.5 mm = 0.05 cm and x, = Smm=0,5 cm.
Ax2d _ 0.5x0.2
-1)= = 05x02 02
OD Br” Tox0s
H=12
Ina double slit interference pattern at a point, 10th order maximum is observed for a light of wavelength
7000 A. What order will be visible if the source of light is replaced by the light of wavelength 5000 A?
Solution
The condition of maxima in interference is given by
Path difference = 2A. a
where n= 0, 1, 2,3,...,4= 7000 A, and n= 10.
‘ Path difference = 10 x 7000 x 10cm @
For light of wavelength 5000 A, :
Path difference = x 5000 x 10 @)
Equating Eqs. (2) and (3) for path difference at the same point,
nx 5000 X 10" = 10 x 7000 x 10*Interference @ 413
=> n=14
Hence, the 14th order of maximum will be observed.
‘Two coherent sources of r~fnochromatic light of wavelength 6000 A produce an interference pattern on
a screen kept at a dist of 1 m from them. The distance between two consecutive bright fringes on
the screen is 0.5.mm. Find the distance between the two coherent sources.
Solution
The fringe width (B) is givea by
DA
Boa
The distance between the two coher2nt sources (2d) is “
Di
og= PA
B
Given D= I m= 100 cm, 4= 6000 A = 6000xt0“cm, and 8 = 0.5 mm = 0.05 em.
_ 100x 6000 x 10%
“ 2d
0.05
‘Two coherent sources are placed 0.2 mm apart and the fringes are observed on a screen | m away. It is
found that with a certain monochromatic source of light, the fourth bright fringe is situated at a distance
of 10.0 mm from the central fringe. Find the wavelength of light.
=0.12 cm
So’ ion
‘The position of nth bright fringe from the centre of the central fringe is given by
x= Dna
Od
gu tutd
nD
Hete x, = 10.0 mm = 1.0 cm, 2¢= 0.2 mm = 0.02 em, n=4, and D= I m= 100m.
Substituting the values in the above equation, we get
qu 1,0%0.02
4x100
Tn Young’s double slit experiment, the slits aro 0.5 mm apart and the interference is observed ona screen
‘placed at a distance of 100 cm from the slits. It is found that the 11th bright fringe is at a distance of 8.835
mm from the fourth dark fringe from the centre of the interference pattern, Find the wavelength of
=5x10%em=5000A414. @ Engineering Physics
Solution
‘The position of nth bright fringe from the centre of the central fringe is given by
Dn.
Bop w
The fringe width (8) is given by
DA
B= ; @)
Therefore, from Eqs. (1) and (2),
x=nB ®
Here, for 11th bright fringe, » = 11
” x, 7B @
Similarly, the position of nth dark fringe is given by
»_ QntI)DA _
“Wa » Where n= 0, 1, 2, 3,.
2n+1
y= | ne 5)
on x} 6
For the fourth dark fringe, n= 3. Therefore,
7
w= 58 ©
Itis given that the distance between the 11th and 4th dark fringe is 8.835 mm or 0.8835 cm.
, 1 15
x,-at=(np-Zp) = Bo
Hence, 8 B= 0.8835
or B= OEE 0.1178
The wavelength (A) given by Eq. (2) is
j= Bad _0.1178%0.05
D 100
= 5890 x 10% om
=5890A
Ina double slit interference pattern with 2 = 6000 A, the zero order and the 10th order maxima fall at
micrometer readings 12.34 and 14.73 mm, respectively. If is changed to 5000 A, find the changed
fringe width.Interference @ 415
—eke or
Solution a
The position of nth bright fringe is given by
x2 Dik
Og ()
10da_0.DA]_10DA _
sons [Seay bg 98
Itis given that x, ~ x, = 14.73 - 12.34 = 2,39 mm.
DA
. B= FG 02a Q)
Let f be the changed fringe width if A is changed to, 2’.
. BLD
- A 2d ®
From Eqs. (2) and (3)
eB
NOR
= 2 xcarm0.239% 50 -
=> B= 5 x= 0.239 x TT = 0.199 mi
Abiprism is placed 5 em away froma sit illuminated by sodium light (2 = 5890 A). The width of the fringes
obtained on a screen placed at a distance of 75 cm from the biprism is 9.424 x 10? cm. What is the
distance between the two coherent sources?
Solution
Given that
A= 5890 x10" m
B= 9424x104 m
D=5+75=80cm=0.80m
From the expression of fringe width,
° “DA
7
‘The separation between the two coherent sources.is given by
_ DA _0,80x5890x10-
Bo 9.424 x10-*
= 0.0005 m = 0.05 em
2d416 @ Engineering Physics
416 _@ Engineering Physics
Interference fringes are produced with a biprism of reftacting angle 1° and refractive index 1.5 on a
soreen placed 80 cm away from it. Ifthe distance between the source and the biprism is 20 em, calculate
the fringe width when the wavelength of light used is 6900 A.
Solution
The fringe width is given by the relation
DA
* Md
where 2d=2a(u- la
Given w= 15, a= 1°= mee and a= 200m.
on D=20+80= 100cm= 1.0m
= 6900 A = 6900 x 10° m
6900x1079 x1.0x7x180
2(.5—1.0)x22x0.20
= 0,0001976 cm
Hence, B=
In a biprism experiment, the eyepiece was placed at a distance of 120 om from the source. The distance
between the two virtual sources was found to be 0.075 cm. Find the wavelength of light used if the eye~
piece has to be moved through a distance of 1.888 em for 20 fringes.
Solution
Given B= 1S = 0.0944 em = 0.000944 m, D= 120 cm=1.20m, and 2d= 0.075 em =0,00075 m.
From the relation B= (DA/2d), the wavelength
— Bad
~ dD
__ 0,000944 x 0,00075
- 1.20
= 5900 x 10°°m= 5900 A
Fringes are produced with monochromatic light of wavelength A = 5450 A, A thin plate of glass
(u= 1.5) is then placed normally in the path of one of the interfering beams and the central band of the
fringe system is found to move into the position previously occupied by the third bright band from the
centre. Calculate the thickness of the glass plate.Interference @ .417
Solution
The thickness of the.glass plate in terms of the number of fringe shift is given by the relation
(u- Deana
Given n= 3, = 1.3, and A= 5450 x 10m, Therefore,
pa TA 3X 5450x107
“GD O5=)
= 0.00000327 m = 0.00327 mm
When a thin sheet of transparent material of thickness 6.3 x 10 cm is introduced in the path of one
of the interfering beams, the central fringe shifts to 4 position occupied by the sixth bright fringe, If
A= 5460 A, find the refractive index of the sheet.
Solution
Given 1= 6.3 x 10*om=6.3 x 10 m, 2= 5460 A ='5460 x 10m, andn=6.
Using the relation (w= 1) t=,
nh
= 41
Las t
— §X5460 x 107°
6.3x10%
anes - -
On placing a thin sheet of mica of thickness 1.2 x 10-* cm in the path of one-of the interfering beams
in a biprism experiment, it is found that the central bright band shifts a distance equal to the width of a
bright fringe. Calculate the refractive index of mica (A= 6 x 10 em).
Solution
Given t= 1.2 x 10cm = 1.2.x 10*m, A= 6 x 10% om =6 x 107m, and x,=.
+1 =152
Using the relation x, Buty, weave
Fane atting x=
a
or A=(u-let
a 6x107
or ua S412
: 112x108
=150418 @ Engineering Physics
‘Amonochromatic light of wavelength = 5000 A is incident on two slits separated by a distance equal to
$x 10m. The interference pattem is seen on a screen placed at a distance of | m from the slits. A thin
lass plato of thickness 1.5 x 10¢m and reftactive index j1~ 1.5 is placed between one of the slits and the
Screen. Find the intensity at the centre of the screen. Also find the lateral shift of the central maximum.
Solution
The path difference due to introduction of thin transparent glass plate
=(u- Ye
= (15-1) X15 x 104
= 0.75 x 104
The corresponding phase difference is given by
8= 7 pat itference
= 27 _ 40,75 x10%=30
(5x10)
‘Therefore, the intensity at the centre of the screen
=a +a +2a,a, cos 5
Here a, = a,= a (say) and 5= 3
“ cos 30> -1
Hence, [=a + a 2a=0
The centre of the screen is therefore dark.
The shifting of central maxima by the introduction of a thin glass plate is given by
D
== (u-)t
3g -)
Here D= Im, 2d= 5% 104m, w= 1.5,and f= 1.5 x 10% m.
1 .
Hence, x= ——— X(LS-1) x 15x 10%
sao“ )
=15mm
=<
42.43 PHASE CHANGE ON REFLECTION (STOKES TREATMENT)
When a light wave is reflected at the surface of an optically denser medium, it suffers a phase change of
zr (but not when reflected at the surface of a rarer medium). This can be explained theoretically on the
basis of the principle of reversibility of light.
Referring to Fig. 12.14, let MN be the boundary of the two media, the lower one being denser. AD
incident light wave AB is partly reflected along BC and partly transmitted along BD. Let r’be the fraction
of the amplitude reflected and 7 the fraction transmitted when the wave is travelling from rarer to denser
‘medium. The amplitudes along BC and BD ate ar and at, respectively [Fig. 12.14(a)].Interference -@ 419
Now, when the directions ofthe reflected and transmitted light reversed, the wave BC givena reheoted
‘wave of amplitude ar? along Bd and a transmitted wave of amplitude art along BE. Let r and ? bethe
‘factions of amplitudes of reflected and transmitted waves when reflected from denser to rardr medlivin,
Then the wave BD on reversal gives a transmitted wave of amplitude ai’ along Bd and a reflected wave
of ar“ along BE. However, according to the principle of reversibility of light none but the origial tay be
present. Hence, component along BE should be zero and that along BA should be equal to a, ie.,
art + atr’=0 (12.13)
art alt= a (12.14)
From Bqs. (12.13) and (12.14), we get
ren (12.15)
tt’=1—72 : (12.16)
The negative sign in Eq, (12.15) indicates displacements in opposite directions, i.e., a phase change of!
wor a path difference of 4/2 will be produced at the surface from rarer to denser ‘medium.
Fig. 12.14 Phase change on reflection
12.14 INTERFERENCE DUE TO THIN FILMS (DIVISION OF AMPLITUDE)
When a thin film of oil (transparent material) spread over the surfac of water is illuminated by light,
intorference occurs between the light waves reflected from the film and also between the light waves
transmitted through the film.
Fig. 12.15 interference due to reflected rays420 @ Engineering Physics
‘Leta monochromati light 34 be incident at an angle ion a parallel-sided transparent thin film of thick=
mens /and refractive index jt (1) (Fig. 12.15). At itis pastly reflected along AR,, and partly refracted
along AB at angle r. dt B it is again parlly reflected along BC and partly refracted along BT. Similar
a avections and reftactions occur at C, D,... ete, as shown in Fig. 12.15. In this way we get the number
of parallel reflected and transmitted rays.
12.14.1 Interference Due to Reflected Rays
Referring to Fig. 12.15, the path difference between the rays AR, and CR, is given by
p= Path ABC in film ~ Path AN in air Le (oypetest yoy)
= (AB + BC)-AN (12.17)
But AB= BC=BMsecr=tsecr
and AN= AC sin i
=(AM+ MO) sini
=2AMsini (AM= MC)
= 2 BMtan r sini (AM= BMtan r)
=2rtan r sini
= 2¢ tan r (isin 7) (-")
sinr
= 2r mt sin’ seer
Path difference
p= m(tsecr +t sec r)~ 2 pt sin’r sec r
= Yt cos r
‘The ray AR, having suffered a reflection at the surface of a denser medium, undergoes a path differ-
ence of 1/2. Hence, effective path difference between AR, and CR is
2uit cos r at ~ (12.18)
Conditions of maxima and minima in reflected light
‘The two rays will give maximum when
2ytt cos r— Z =n}, n= 0,1, Qe
or 2yt cos r= (2n + 03 Vv (12.19)
In this condition, the film will appear bright in the reflected light.
The two rays will give minimum when
2h 2d
2p eos r- 5 = Qn)
or 2ut cos r= nd wa (12.20)
We are considering (ve) signInterference ®. 42%.
Under this condition the film will appear dark in the reflected light.
12.14.2 Interference Due to Transmitted Rays .-~~
The path difference between the transmitted rays BT, and DT, is given by
p= (BC+ CD)—BL
= 2utcosr
In this case, there is no phase change due to reflection at B or C because in either case the light is travelling
from denser to rarer medium, Hence, the effective path difference between transmitted rays is also 2ut cos r.
Conditions for Maxima and Minima in Transmitted Light
The two rays will reinforce each other if
2Quteosr=nh (12.21)
The film will then appear bright in the transmitted light:'The two rays will interfere distructively if
2ut cos r= (2n-+ v4 uw (12.22)
and the film will appear dark in this condition.
Accomparison of Eqs. (12.19), (12.20), (12.21), and (12.22) shows that the interference pattern in the
two cases are complementary to each other.
12.15 INTERFERENCE DUE TO WEDGE-SHAPED THIN FILM: FRINGE WIDTH
Let us consider a wedge-shaped film of refractive index js bounded by two plane surfaces Od and OB at
angle @. The thickness of the film is increasing from O to 4.
Referring to Fig. 12.16, S*P is the incident ray of monochromatic light of wavelength 4 on the upper
surface (OB) of the film. This ray suffers multiple reflections and transmissions in the film.
Fig. 12.16 Interference due to wedge-shaped thin film422 @ Engineering Physics
So the optical path difference between reflected rays
p= H(PR + RT)-PK :
= (PN + NR + RT)— PK (12.23)
From APKT, sin i= 2 sand from APNT, sn r= =
_ sini _PK/PT _ PK
sinr PN/PT PN
PR=yPN
Hence, Eq. (12.23) will give
P=H(PN + NR*RT)— MPN
P= H(NR + RT) (12.24)
Now, ARTH and ARHL are congruent. Hence, RT= RL
P= MNR + RL)
= NL
Now from ATNE
NEL
— =cos(r+
Te 7oor +8)
NL= IL cos(r+ 6)'
= (TH+ HL) cos(r + 8)
= 2tcos(r + (- TH = HL)
o p= 2M cos(r+8)
Now path difference as per Stokes treatment will become ~.
a
2ut cos(r + 8) + z (12.25)
(i) For maximum
a
yt cos(r + 6) + 37 aa
or ur cos(r+ 6)= 2n=1) 4, n= 1,2,3,.. (12.26)
Gi) For minimum 2
2pt costy + 6) + S-ansy4
2yt cosy + O) =n (12.27)
eeInterference @ 423
12.15.1 Fringe Width
From Fig. 12.17, we have
ton 8 ‘ '
Xy 4
or r=x,tan 0 <—*, = nB—_>
Here, x,= » B, B= fringe width and n = number of fringes. Fig. 22.17 Fringe width of
From Eq, (12.27), for a dark fringe, wedge-shaped thin film
2yx, tan @cos (r+ 6) =
nA,
al +n” Durtan@cos(r +8)
For normal incidence and thin film r= 0, tan @= 0, and cos @= 1. Therefore, 1Z—-
=k
3H
Similarly for (n+1)th fringe,
Xa = os is
‘Therefore, distance or spacing to successive fringes, i.c., fringe width
a
ee
or Daag" ue
or B a (12.28)
Solved Examples
In Fresne!’s biprism experiment with a source of light of wavelength 5890 A, a thin mica sheet of refractive
index 1.6 is placed normally in the path of one of the interfering beams and the centre of bright fringe
is shifted to the position of third bright fringe from the centre. Calculate the thickness of the mica sheet.
Solution
‘When a mica sheet of thickness f is introduced in the path of one of the interfering beams, then
(u-Dtand
= r= A o
ulEngineering Physics
Given n= 3, U= 1.6, and A= 5890 A= 5.89 x 10% om.
_ 3x5.89 x10
= 2.945 x 10cm
© (L6=1)
A parallel beam of light of wavelength 2 = 5890 A is incident on a thin glass plate of refractive index
= 15 such that the angle of refraction is 60° Calculate the smallest thickness of the plate which will ap-
pear dark by reflection,
Solution
Given p= 1.5, 7 = 60°, A= 5890 A = 5890 x 10" m, and n= 1.
‘We know that the condition for minima in reflected light from a thin film is given by
2pt cos r= nd,
2x 15 x t cos 60°= 1 x 5890 x 107°
p= 5890x107?
2x15x05
= 3.926 x 104 mm
Light of wavelength 5893 A is reflected at nearly normal incidence from a soap film of refractive index
1.42. What is the least thickness of the film that will appear (i) black and (ii) bright?
Solution
Given A = 5893 A = 5893 x 10° m, r= 08 and y= 1.42.
(@ The condition for thin film to appear dark in reflected light is given by
= 3.926 x 107m
2ut cos r= nd,
Hence 2X 142 x feo r= 1x 5893 x 10"
10
= p= 5893.0" = 2075 x 10m
2x1.42
= 2.075 x 107 m= 2.075 x 10% mm
i) The condition for thin film to appear bright in reflected light is given by
2ptt cos r= (On— v4
(2-1) x 5893 x 107?
2
2x 142 xtcosr=
_ 5893x107”
2x2x1.42
= 1.0375 x 10% mm
= 1037.5 x 10" mInterference @ 425
A thin film of soap solution is iluminatéd by white light at an angle of incidence i= sin-1(4/5), In reflected
light two dark consecutive overlapping fringes are observed corresponding to wavelengths 6.1.x 10-7 and
6.0.x 107m, The refractive index for soap solution is 4/3. Calculate the thickness of the film.
Solution
Given = 4/3, 4,= 6.1 x 107 m, and A, = 6.0x107'm.
The two dark consecutive fringes are overlapping for the wavelengths A, and 4., respectively. Then
nA, = (n+ 1A, :
or 2X 6.1% 107 = (n+ 1) x 6X 10-7 = 6 x 107 +6 x 107
or 6.1nx 107 6nx 107 =6 x 107
5
Hence cos r= yl-sin? + =,/1-(0.67 = 0.6408
Also, ut cos r= nA,
hy _60X6.1x107
Qwcosr 2x (4/3)x08
= 1.7210? mm
A soap film of refractive index 1.33 is illuminated with light of different wavelengths at an angle of
45° There is complete destructive interference for A = 5890 A. Find the thickness of the film.
Solution
Given p= 1.33 and §= 45°
=> ad
N
1.72 x 10%m
sin 45° _
- 1
> sin -= = ___
133 2 x1.33
= 0.5317426 @ Engineering Physics
cos r= Vi-sin? r= V1- (0.5317)? = 0.8469
For destructive interference,
2yut cos r= nd
2x1.33 x t x 0.8469 = 1x 5890 x 107°
5890x1071?
= Ont 2
> '= Sasawogaep 72614 107m
= 2.61410 mm
we FORMATION OF NEWTON'S RINGS
‘When a planoconvex lens of large radius of curvature is placed with
its convex surface in contact with a plane glass plate, an air film is
formed between the lower surface of the lens and the upper surface
of the plate, The thickness of the film gradually increases from the
point of contact outwards. If monochromatic light is allowed to fall
normally on this film, a system of alfemate bright and dark concentric
rings with their centre dark is formed in the air film (Fig. 12.18).
‘These are called Newton's rings and can be seen through a low-power
microscope focussed on the film.
‘Newton’s rings are formed as a result of interference between the
light waves reflected from the upper and lower surfaces of the air film.
‘Newton's rings are concentric and circular because of points equal “
to the thickness of film lie on circles with the point of the contact of Fig-12.18 Newton's rings
the lens and the plate as centre.
Theory: In reflected light, the effective path difference between interfering rays will be
he
p=2yreosr+ 5 .
Now, for air film, = | and r = 0 for normal incidence. Therefore,
4
=2+ =
P 2
At the point of contact of the lens, the plate thickness ¢=0; hence, p= 2/2. This is the condition for
minimum intensity. Hence, the central spot is dark.
The condition for maximum intensity (bright fringe) is
p=nk
2t+ 2 snd
t= on (maxima) (12.29)
“The path difference is actually 22 cos(r + 8) + (2/2) , witere On the angle of film at any point, Due to large raduis of curvature ofthe
Jens, 0s extremely small and hence neglected, The factor 4/2 corresponds to Stoke's treatment,Interference 427
for
inimum intensity (dark fringe) is
a
p=(2n+1) 2
a a
att 2 =Qnt DD
2t= nd (minima) (12.30)
Ttis clear that a bright or dark fringe of any particular i
12.16.1 Diameters of Rings
Referring Fig. 12.19, LOL’ be the lens placed on glass plate AB, the point of contact being O. Let R be
the radius of curvature of the planoconvex lens, Lat P, be the radius
of a Newton's ring corresponding
to a point P, where the film thinkness is r,
From the property of a circle,
PN? = ON x NE
PP =txX(QR-1)
= 2k 72
E
\
\
+
‘
1
1
:
A - B
3°
He fy
Fig. 42.19 Diameters of Newton's ring
Since tis very small as compared to R, we can neglect #2. Hence,
P= 2Rt
or, 2r= Pa
Now the condition for a bright ring is given by
a a
2t=(2n - 1S
ens428 @ Engineering Physics
2
2 z
Goon}
2 = (2n—1) AR
p= Qn
Incident ray
Fig. 12.20 Formation of coherent sources ‘in Newton's ring
Figure 12.20 shows the formation of coherent sources in Newton's ring,
If, is the diameter of ath datk sing, then D, = 2p,, Therefore,
D2=2(2n—1)AR
D,= V2ARN2n-1
‘Dye V2n-1
\
(12.31),
“Thus, the diameters of bright rings are proportional to the square roots of the odd natural numbers,
‘The condition for a dark ting is given by
2nd
2
‘ Pa =nh
ICD, is tho diameter of mh dark ring, then p,~ D,/2. Therefore,
D?2=4nAR
D,> Vania
D,= Jn
(12.32)Interference -@ 429
Thus, the diameters of dark rings are directly proportional to the square roots of natural numberse
12.16.2 Experimental Method for Calculation of Wavelength
To determine the wavelength of sodium light by Newton’s ring method, the experimental arrangement
is made as shown in Fig.-12,21. Let 5 be.a monochromatic source placed at the focus of lens L. The
parallel rays are incident at plate G, which is inclined at an angle of 45° The rays are partly reflected
fiom the inclined plate and incident normally on the plane surface of a planoconvex lens L, placed over
aplane glass plate N. 5
The air film is formed between the lens L, and plate N around the point of contact O. The reflected
tays from the air film are viewed with a microscope M focussed on the air film. ct
gS 4
ae
{45° s
~ ‘Source
ITT ~_
L
Ale film
}— Glass plate
P
Fig. 12.21 Experimental arrangement for Newton's ring
We know that for dark rings,
D?=4n AR
' For (+p) dark ring,
D2, = 4(ntp)AR
Both will give ,
D2, ~ D2 = 4pAR
Da,» - De
or As tee on (12.33)
4pR .
The cross-wire of eyepiece is focussed on the rings and the microscope is moved to the extreme left of
the rings. Now the cross-wire is focussed on any dark ring (say 24th , 16th) and reading of the microscope
is noted. Microscope is now moved towards the centre and is focussed after every 2 of 4 rings. Similar
readings are taken at the other end, i.e., at the extreme tight of the rings (24th or 16th), and the diameters
of the different rings are then calculated.
A graph is plotted between the square of the diameter (D*) and the number of rings n. This graph is a
straight line (Fig. 12.22), The slope of the curve gives the value of (23 -p ) 0 Thus, 4 of sodium
np
light is determined from Eq. (12.33). :430 @ Engineering Physics
—> n (Number of rings)
Fig. 12.22 Graph between the number of rings and its diameter
12.16.3 Determination of Refractive Index of a Liquid by Newton’s Ring
The liquid whose refractive index is to be determined is placed between the Jens and the glass plate P
in the Newton's ring arrangement. The effective path difference between interfering rays is 2uut cos r
+ (2/2), for normal incidence r= 0, which gives path difference as 2yr + (2/2).
The condition for nth bright fringe is
a
Qytt 2 =n
a
= = @n- De (12.34)
We know that if D, is the diameter of mth bright ring, then
n= De (12.35)
4R
Dp a
Pn any
ae "D3,
Di=20n-p48 12:36)
IfD,,,, is the diameter of (n + p)th rng then
dD po 2 [2(ntp)- n& (12.37)
apa
Pa, Del wa
For air, w= 1, .
= [D2,,-D?] j= 4pAR
(De, ~Dai
~ ae (12.38)
[Disp ~ Pr liguia
Hence, the refractive index of a liquid (2) can be determined by measuring the diameters of Newton’s
rings in the liquid and in the air.Interference ® AB1
12.16.4 Newton’s Rings with Both Curved Surfaces
Case 1: Lower surface is convex [Fig. 12.23(a)]. In this case, the thickness of the air film
t=h4+h, . (12.39)
IER, and R, are the radii of curvature of upper and lower curved surfaces, respectively, we can have
2 42
t= fy Pe
2k” 2R,
2 2
Pay Pa
aah 12.40)
os RR (12.40)
where p, be the radius of nth ring at the thickness 2, The condition for dark ring at normal incidence is
21= nd a24iy
From Eqs. (12.40) and (12.41),
2 1
Be +4 =nk (12.42)
live
TED, isthe diameter of mh ing, p, = p, /2
Difa ady_
ala
R
ca . (12,43)
Case 2: Lower surface is concave {Fig. 12,23(b)]. Now,
t=h-t,
1 1
or 2t=p? [e-z] (12.44)
RR
From Eqs. (12.41) and (12.43),
2) 2 1
o lk x ”
* 2
led]
41k ®
2 4nd 12.45)
> J Dt [Ea] (12.45)
RR
Thus, combining Eqs. (12.43) and (12.45), we get
. 2 4nd432 @ Engineering Physics
et
t
r
LL
T
i
(a) (b)
Fig. 12.23 Newton's ring with both curved surface
————mes Solved Examples smaaaanmaanmanaan
Light of wavelegth 6000 A falls normally on a thin wedge-shaped film of reftactive index 1.4 forming
fringes that are 2 mm apart, Find the angle of the wedge.
Solution
Given A= 6000 10-" m, w= 1.4, 8=2.0 mm=2.0x 103m — .
The ftinge width in the case of wedge-shaped film for normal incidence is given by
= 1.07 x 10+ rad,
3 4
Interference fringes are produced with monochromatic light falling normally on a wedge-shaped film of
refractive index 1.4, The angle of the wedge is 10 seconds of an arc and the distance between the suces-
sive fringes is 0.5 em. Calculate the wavelength of light used.
Solution
Given 6= 10s of an are = 10 x m/60 x 60 x 180 tad and B=,0.5 cm=5 x 10° m, and,
‘The dinge width in case of wedge-shaped film for normal incidence is given by B= 2/2100
A=B-2u8
2x14x10x22x5x107
60 60x 180x7
= 6790 x 10m
=> aInterference @ 493°
= 6790 A
enbledseg
Jn Newton's ring experiment the diameter of the 15th ring was found to be 0.590 cm and that ofthe’ Sch
sing 0.336 cm. Ifthe radius of the planoconvex lens is 100 em, calculate the wavelength ofthe light used.
Solution
Given D,,=0.590 om =0.590 x 10? m, D, = 0.336 cm = 0,336 x 107m, p= (15-5) = 10, and R= 100 em
=1L0m. - -
The wavelength of the monochromatic light is given by
ga DaswPh
4pR
2? 2P
0.590 x10)" ~ (0.336 x 10
~ 4x10x1
= 5880 x 10m
= 5880 A
Newton’s rings are formed in reflected light of wavelength 6000 A with a liquid between the plane and
curved surfaces. Ifthe diameter of the sixth bright ring is 3.1 mm and the radius of curvature of the curved
surface is 1m, calculate the refractive index of the liquid,
Solution
Given n = 6, 4 = 6000 A = 6000 x 107m, R= 1m, D,=3.1 mm=3 x10? mn =6.
The diameter of nth bright ring is given by
_ 2(2n—1)aR
a
2(12-1) x 6000x107" x1
(3.1x107)°
Di
=1374
Newton’s rings are observed in reflected light of wavelength 5900 A. The diameter of the 10th dark ring .
is 0.5 cm, Find (i) the radius of curvature of the lens and (ii) the thickness of the air film.
Solution
Given 4= 5900 x 10” m, n= 10, and D, = 0.5 em= 5x 107,
(i) The diameter of the dark ring is given by434 © Engineering Physics
D?= 4naR
. he De (x10)
6
a on a Bx = 1.059 m
4nk 4x10 x 5900x1071 23.510"
(i) The thickness of the air film is given by
2=ndh
mA _ 10x 5900x1071
2 2
=2.95x 10% m
=> t=
‘The angle of the wedge is 0.3° and the wavelength of sodium D lines are 5890 A and 5896 A. Find the
distance from the apex of the wedge at which the maximum due to the two wavelengths first coincide,
Solution
‘The condition for maxima for normal incidence in air film is given by
21=Qn+ v3 q)
Let nth order maximum due to A, coincides with (1 + 1)th order maximum due to A,. Then
2t=(2n+1)- Ay = 0n3)-2
27 2)
Substituting the value of » in Eq. (2), we get
=
If Bis the angle of wedge and x is the distance at which the maxima due to two wavelengths coincide
(A,> A). then
tan = 4
x
t
> o= 2 (and~9
= t= Ox @)
HereInterference @ 435
03xn
0=0.3°= 180
5896x10™ x5890x107$x180
p= — 2896x107 5890x107" 180
2(sas6x10* ~5890%10§ )x0.3%3.14
56 cm,
‘Newton’s rings are observed normally in reflected light of wavelength 6000 A. The diameter of 10th dark
ring is 0.500m, Find the radius of curvature of the lens and thickness of the film.
Solution
The diameter of nth dark ring is given by
D2=4nRA 4 oy)
Given D, = 0.50.cm, 46000 A = 6000 x 10 cm, and 7 =10.
D 0,500.50
= ph = = 104.2 em
4k 4x10x6000x10°%
The thickness ¢ of the film corresponding to nth ring is given by
2
D;
2t=—
4R
De
tee
> 8R
— 0:50%0.50
8x106
In Newton’s ring experiment, the diameter of 4th and 12th dark rings are 0.4 and 0.7 em, respectively.
Find the diameter of 20th dark ring.
Solution '
The difference of (n + p)th and nth dark ring is given by
D2,,-D2=4pRA a
Here (n+ p) = 12 and n=4, D,, = 0.7 cm, and D, = 0.4 em.
D2, -D4=4x8xRA
D3-DI=4x16xRA ~ @)
Dividing Eq. (3) by Eq. (2), we get
Dy De _ 4x16 >
=2.99x 104 om
Dy-De 4x8 .436 @ Engineering Physics
Dig Di= 2D DD)
Dij= 2D4- Dt
x (0.7? —(0.4F
Di= 0.98 - 0.16 = 0,82
Dyy= 0.82 = 0.9 em
‘ANewton’s ring experiment is performed with a source of light having two wavelengths 2, = 6 x 10-* om
and A,=4.5 x 10cm, Itis found that the nth dark ring due to A, coincides with (7 + 1)th dark ring due to
Ja, If the radius of curvature of the curved surface is 90 om, find the diameter of the nth dark ring for 2,
Solution
The diameter of nth ring is given by
D2=4nRA, a
Dt = 4+ 1) RA, . Q)
The nth dark ring due to 4, coincides with (n+ 1)th dark ring due to 2,
Hence, from Eq. (2),
4nRA, = 4(n + 1) RA,
nh, =(n+ DA,
nAy-nh,=h,
nA, A) =A,
=
aan
Here, 2, = 6 x 10om, A, = 4.5 x 10cm, and R= 90 om.
45x10 4.5x10% 4
3
6x10 =45x10° 13x10"
‘The diameter of nth dark ring for A, is
D2=4X3x6x 10590
> D,= 648x107 = 0.254 em
In Newton’s ring experiment, the wavelength of lightused is 6 x 10cm and the difference of square of
diameters of successive rings is 0.125 cm’, What will happen to this quantity if
(i the wavelength of light is changed to 4.5 x 10 cm?
Gi) the liquid of refractive index 1,33 is introduced between the lens and the glass plate?Interference @ 437
Git) the radius of curvature of convex surface of the planoconvex lens is doubled?
Solution :
Jn Newion’s rings, the giference of square of diameter for nth and (n+p) ing is piven by
4pRA
~pe= APPA
Dis 7
Here, for successive rings, p = 1. Therefore,
RA.
Bip, = a
(i) When light of wavelength A is changed to 4’, then
1 1, ARV
D?,,-D?= ara Q)
Dividing Eq. (2) by Eq-(1), we get
Divi —Dn
Dy -Dp
2 fd uv 2 2
or b3,-p2= <1,»
Here, A= 6 x 10% om, 4 = 4.5 x 10% em, and Dy. - D2 = 1.25 cm’.
’ 5
D? 4 D?2= SSO” 9 195-0937 em?
6x10
i) When a liquid of reftactive index’ istntrodaced, thea
4
et o 8)
Dividing Eq, (3) by Eq. (1), we get
DA, py?
a =H
Dede
+ Dil Ds E (Diy ~Da)
Here w= 1 4?= 1.38, and D3, -D?=0.125 cm.
or D3, ~D3= x0.125= 0.094 em ~
we
(iii) When the radius ofcorvane of planoconvex lens is changed from R to R’, then ay
Dy, -D2= AR @
ra
Dividing Eq, (4) by Eq. (1), we get438
@ Engineering Physics
or
Dea -Da oR
Day-Be OR
: nk
D3,~D3= 7 D2, -Dd
Here R’ = 2R. Therefore,
b*,,-D3= 4 (p.-02)
= 2. 0,125 = 0.250 cm?
42.17 FORMULAE AND HIGHLIGHTS
eye
. Displacement of fringes: x,
. Path difference introduced due to plate: A=(u- 1)
. ‘The conditions for maxima and minima in transmitted and reflected light in the interference due
| Interference occurs due to superposition of two waves having constant phase difference.
. Interference is consistent with principle of conservation of energy.
. Path difference A= nd (constructive interference)
A= Qntl) 2 (destructive interference)
. Phase difference 5= 2nz (constructive interference)
8= Qntl)n (destructive interference)
. Fringe width in Young’s experiment or in biprism experiment is
= Dr
2d
. Fora biprism: 2d = 2a (ua. (d= ao(p-te]
Pao B
ag HD EH FGDs
to thin parallel films are complimentary to cach other.
. The ftinge width due to wedge-shaped film: B= 2/246.
__-Newton’s rings are formed as a result of interference between the light waves reflected from the
upper and lower surfaces of the air film.
. Newton’s rings are concentric and circular because the points of equal thickness of film lie on
circles with the point of contact of the lens and the plate as centre.
1X Diameters for dark rings D, e Jy and for bright rings D, = fnzi,
14.
1S.
D?=2 (2n +1) AR (bright ring) and D? = 4n AR (dark ring).
Di, - De
Wavelength from Newton’s ring: 4=
avelength from Newton's ring oRInterference @ 439.
= rer — Dr ai
16, Refractive index p= —"—S*
Diep — De ius
Exercises
1. What are coherent sources? How are they obtained in practice?
2. What is interference of light? Describe Young’s experiment for demonstration of interference of
light.
3. Define coherent sources, Discuss why two independent sources of light of same wavelength can-
not show interference?
4, Explain the phenomena of interference. What arc the conditions to get the sustained interference
of light?
5. Derive an expression for the intensity at a point in the region of interference by two waves of same
wavelength. Explain the statement “the formation of interference fringes is in accordance with the
law of conservation of energy”.
6. Explain the formation of interference of fringes by means of Fresnel biprism using monochromatic
source of light. How is wavelength measured by biprism experiment?
7. Monochromatic light from a narrow slit falls on two parallel slits and interference fringes are
obtained on a screen. Calculate the spacing between consecutive maxima or minima.
20 What are the conditions of maxima and minima in an interference pattern? Derive them.
9. Explaii thee interference pattern produced by a biprism with a monochromatic source of light.
10. Discuss the effect of introducing a thin plate inthe path of one of the interfering beams ina biprisn
experiment. Deduce an expression for the displacement of the fringes.
11. Diseuss the phenomena of interference of light duc to thin films and find the conditions of maxima
and minima. Show tha the interference pattems of reflected and transmitted monochromatic light
_ + are complementary.
12. Explain the colours when a thin film illuminated by white light is observed in reflected light.
13. Discuss the formation of interference fringes in a thin wedge-shaped film. Find the expression
for fringe width.
14, What are Newton's rings? Describe and explain the formation of Newton’s rings in reflected
monochromatic light. Prove that in reflected light,
(i) diameters of the dark rings are proportional to the square root of natural numbers, and
(i). diameters of the bright rings are proportional to the square root of odd natural numbers.
15. Describe Newton's tings method for measuring the wavelength of monochromatic light and the
refractive index of a liquid. Give the necessary theory.440 @ Engineering Physics
16. Why is the centre of Newton’s rings dark in case of thin air film? What will happen if (i) a little
introduced between the lens and plate, (ii) a plane mirror is used instead of a glass plate,
i) white light is used? .
17. Why is a narrow source necessary for biprism experiment, while an extended source is required
for Newton’s rings experiment? Explain,
18. Describe and explain the formation of Newton's rings in reflected monochromatic light. Explain
briefly why Newton’s rings are circular,
19. How will you locate the fringe of zero-order in biprism experiment?
20. Why isa broad source necessary for: observing colours in thin films? Why are colours not observed
in the case of a thick film?
21, When a thin mica sheet is introduced inthe path of one ofthe interfering beams, show thatthe fringe
width remains the same, Describe how this method is used for finding the thickness of a thin glass
plate,
22. Describe the interference in thin film. Show that the reflected and transmitted interference patterns
are complementary,
23, Explain what will happen
if white light is used instead of monochromatic light in Newton’s ring experiment,
(ii) when air in the interspace is replaced by a transparent liquid.
24. “Explain the formation of Newton’s ring. Why do we prefer a convex lens of large radius of cur
vature for producing Newton’s rings?
1. The ratio between maximum and minimum intensities is 36:1 in an interference pattern. Find the
ratio between the amplitudes and intensities of the two interfering waves,
(Ans. a,/ay = 7/5, hy [y= 49/25)
In Young’s experiment, interference bands are produced on the screen placed at 1.5 m from the
{wo slits 0.15 mm apart and illuminated by light of wavelength 6500 A. Find (i) the fringe width
and (ji) the change in the fringe width if the screen is taken away from the slit by 50 cm,
(Ans. B= 0.065 m, AB= 0.0216 m)
3. Inabiprism experiment, the micrometer readings for zero and tenth order fringes are 1.25 and 2.37
mm, respectively, when light of wavelength 6 x 10° cm is used. What will be the position of zero
and tenth order fringes if wavelength is changed to 7.5 x 10° om.
(Ans. 1.25 mm, 2.65 mm)
4. A double slit arrangement produces interference fringes for sodium light (A = $800 A) that are
0.20" apart. For what wavelength would the angular separation be 10% greater?
: (Ans. 6479 A)
5. The inclined faces of glass biprism (41 1.5) make an angle of 2° with the base of the prism. The
slit is 10 cm away from the biprism and is illuminated by light of wavelength $800 A’ Calculate
() the separation between the coherent source formed by the biprism and (i) the fringe width at
a distance of I'm from the slit. (Ans. (1) 0.349 om, Gi) 0.157 em)Interference. @: “441.
~
©
. The distance between the slit and and biprism and that between the biprism and screen are each's0
cin. The obtuse angle of biprism is 179° and its refractive index is 1.5. If thé width of the fringe
is 0.0135 cm, calculate the wavelength of light. : (Ans.:5893 A)
+ "Two glass plates enclosing a wedge-shaped air film touching at one edge are separated by a Wire
of 0.03 mm diameter at a distance of 15 cm from the edge, Monochromatic light of wavelength
6000 A from a broad source falls normally on the film, Calculate the fringe width,
(Ans..0.15 em)
- On placing of thin sheet of mica of thickness 12x10- cm in the path of one of the interfering
beams in a biprism experiment itis found that the central bright band shifts by a distance equal
to the width of a bright fringe. Calculate the refiactive index of mica (A= 6.0% 10"*em). -
(Ans. 1.5)
Two pieces of plane glass are placed together with a piece of paper between the two at one edge,
{fon viewing the film with alight of wavelength 6000 A falling normally on it there are 10 fringes
per centimetre, calculate the angle of the wedge. (Uns. 61.9 8)
Find the thickness of a wedge-shaped air film at a point where the fourth bright fringe is situated,
Wavelength of sodium light is 5893 A. (Ans, 1.03 x 10m)
+ Awedge-shaped air film having an angle of 40" is illuminated by monochromatic light, and fringes
are observed vertically through a microscope. The distance measured between consecutive fringes
is 0.12 om. Calculate the wavelength of the light used, (Ans. 4656 A)
. Light of wavelength 5.9 x 10°” mis incident ona thin soap film at 30° and dark bands are observed
5.0 mm apart, If 1 = 1.33, find the angle between thé faces of the film. (Ans. 10°)
. Newton's rings are observed by reflection in the air film between a plane surface sind a convex
surface of radius 45 om. Ifthe squares ofthe radius of six successive bright rings are’50, 76, 99,
124, 151, and 175 x 10*m?, make the best calculation for the wavelength of light.
(dns, 5566 A)
.. If the diameters of two consecutive Newton’s rings in reflected light of wavelength 5890 A are
2.0 and 2.02 em, respectively, what is the radius of curvature of the lens surface in contact with
plane glass surface? (Ans, 341.2 em)
. Ina Newton’s rings experiment, the diameter of the fifth dark ring is reduced to half of its value
afler introducing a liquid below the convex surface. Calculate the refractive index of liquid.
(Ans. 4.0)
9. Newton's rings are formed in reflected light of wavelength 5895 A with a liquid between the plane
and curved surface. If the diameter of the fifth bright ring is 3 mm and the radius of curvature of
the curved surface is 1 m, calculate the refractive index of the liquid. (Aas. 1.179)
. Newton's rings are formed with reflected light (2 = 5890 A) using a planoconvex lens and a
plane glass plate with a liquid between them. The diameter of 10th ring is 4,2 mm and radius of
Curvature of the lens is 100 cm. Find the refractive index of the liquid if the ring is (i) dark and
Gi) bright. (Ans. (i) 1.335 mm, (ii) 1.268 mm)
In air interference pattern with two coherent sources, the amplitude of intensity variation is found
to be 5% of the average intensity. Calculate the relative intensities of the interfering sources.
Ans, 1600:1)442
19.
20.
21.
23.
24.
25,
26.
27,
L
@ Engineering Physics
In a typical biprism experiment, the fringe width is 10 m for a wavelength of 5893 Alf
y/x= 20, where y is the distance between the biprism and screen and x is that between the slit
nd the biprism, calculate the refracting angle oof the biprism. Given that p= 1.5.(Ans.0.709°)
‘The inclined faces of glass (ji = 1.5) make an angle-of 2° with the face of prism. The slit is
10 cm from the prism and is illuminated by light of wavelength 5500 A. Calculate the separation
between the coherent sources formed by the biprism. (Ans. 0.349 om}
‘A transparent paper of refractive index 1.45 and of thickness 0.02 mm is pasted on one of the slits
ofa Young’s double slit experiment which uses monochromatic light of wavelength 620nm. How
many ftinges will cross through the centre if the paper is removed? (Ans. 14.5)
In an arrangement of double slit, the slits are illuminated by light of wavelength 600 um. Find
the distance of the first point on the screen from the cential maximum, where intensity is 75% of the
central maximum. (Ans. 4.8 x 10m)
If fringe width with A= 5.89 x 10“em is 0.431 mm and shift of white central fringe on introduc-
ing a mica sheet in path of one beam is 1.89 mm, calculate the thickness of the sheet (11= 1-59).
(Ans, 4.4 x 10-5em)
‘A thin soap film (11 = 1.33) seen by sodium light (A = 5893 A) by normal reflection appears dark.
Find the minimum thickness of the film. (Ans. 2.215 x 104 om)
White light is reflected from an oil film of thickness 0.1 mm and refractive index 1.4 at an angle
of 45° to the vertical. If the reflected light falls on the slit of a spectrometer, calculate the number
of dark bands seen between wavelengths 4000 A and 5000 A. (Ans. 12)
‘Newton's rings are observed between a convex lens and a plane glass plate. The diameter of nth
and (7 + 5)th rings aro 11.37 and 14.28 units, respectively. Find the diameters of () (x ~ 5)th and.”
(i) (a+ 14)th rings. (Ans. (i) 7.40 units, (i) 18.40 units)
“When Newton’s rings are formed with a wavelength 6.0 x 10cm in air, the difference between
the square of the diameters of the successive rings is found to be 0.125 env. Find the changes
jn the difference between the squares of the successive ring diameters, if a liquid of # = 1.33 is
introduced between the lens and the plate. (Ans. 0.094 om?)
‘Two coherent sources of intensity ratio or interfere. In the interference pattern
ph aan WE gy tam a
2.
Trax Fin Ft Trin
© foe. ita @ Lon. =Fot
ax
Formation of interference fringes is in accordance with
(a) law of conservation of momentum
(b). tant amplitude
oe coy
(d) none of theseInterference @ 443
3. In double slit experiment the fringe width varies with distance between two sources as
(a) directly ‘proportional
inveisly proportional »
(©) -inversty square
(d) none of these
4, When a mica sheet of refractive index j1 and thickness /is introduced in front of one of the in-
terfering beams, the path difference is increased by an amount
ar ule ) m
© pa 24
5. When a light wave is reflected at the surface of an optically denser medium, it suffers a phase
change of
@ m2 (b) 20
ca (d) m/4
6. In Newton's ring experiment, the diameters of dark rings are directly proportional to
\ fay Square root of natural numbers
(6) square root of odd numbers
(0) natural numbers
(@) none of these :
On placing a liquid of refractive index p between convex lens and plane glass plate in Newton’s
ting experiment, the diameters of circular rings decrease with refractive index as
L 1
@ — =e
Pr Or GR
@u @ a
8. The condition for destructive interference (dark) of light reflected from a plate is
EF Dut Los r= nd (0) 2jut cos r= (2n+ 1) WH
(©) 2sinr=n, (@) none of these 2
‘in Fresnel’s biprism experiment, the distance between two coherent sources is given by
A 2d = 2a(w~ 1x (0) 2d= (ta
(©) 2d=2a(a- hu @ none of these
10. Inan interference pattern 12th order maximum is observed, For A= 6000 A, the order visible for
A= 4800 is
Le 15 ) 13
(©) 10 @9
1. @ 2© 3. (b) 4. (a) 5. (©) 6. (a)
7. (b) 8 @) 9% (@) 10. (a)444 @ Engineering Physics
1. When the resultant intensity is gredter than the sum of the intensities of individual waves, the
interference is said to be ..
2, Young’s experiment is an example of division of .
3. Phenomenon of interference is consistent with law of
4, The shape of fringes in Young's double slit experiment is .
5. On introduction of a mica sheet, the path difference between the waves reaching at a point on the
screen is ..
6. Inthe expression d= 2a (u-Da, ais the distance between . wa and
7. The condition of maxima in interference is that the path difference should bean...
of ..
8. When a light wave in reflected at the surface of an optically denser medium, it suffers a phase
change of
9. Ithas been observed that conditions for interference due to thin film in reflected and transmitted
rays are .. to each other.
10.- Newton’s rings are formed in _ film.
11, In Newton’s rings experiment, the central spot is
12, The diameters of dark rings are directly proportional to ..
13, Refractive index of liquid placed between lens and the plate is
proportional to the diameter of dark rings.
14. Superposition of two simple harmonic waves will not change .
wave.
15. If fy/Jy = 0, the value of (ux ~ Faxin)/(Zmux + Lis
=a
of natural numbers.
. of resultant
will be ..
1. constructive 2. wavefront 3, conservation of energy
4. hyperbola 5. (u-1)t 6. biprism and Source
7. integral, wavelength 8. 9. complementry
10. air LL. dark 12. square root
1B.
. inversely, square of 14, frequency, nature 15. 2Va/(1+@)