11 INTERFERENCE AND DIFFRACTION

INTRODUCTION: amplitude becomes minimum and the energy is

In 1680
Huygens' proposed that light propagates minimum. While at other points where crest of one
in the form of wave falls upon the crest of
the other or trough of one
waves and
refraction of light
explained reflection and wave falls upon the trough of other,
the resultant
satisfactorily on the basis of wave amplitude increases andenergyY becomes
the
theory. If the light
propagates as waves then it must
maximum. This modification in the distribution of
exhibit interference and
diffraction effect in thee of two or more
medium of
propagation. Thomos Young in 1801 energy obtained by the superposition
performed his famous experiment and demonstrated waves is térmed as interference. It was observed first
and waves on the surface
interference of light. This confirmed the wave nature in the case of sound waves

of light. of water.
h e modification in the intensity of light
Interference takes place when waves interact
with each other while diffraction
takes place when (redistribution of light energy) produced by the
waves passes superposition of two or more light waves is called
through an aperture. These interactions
are governed
by principle of superposition of waves. interference of light.
Interference and diffraction effects are exhibited by all The concept of interference is made clear by the
wave motions. The brilliant colours of butterflies
ripple tank experiment. Suppose that there are two
wings, thin oil film on water and peacock feathers are
the effects of interference and diffraction.
points A and B (Fig.11.1) on the surface of water
where two exactly similar circular waves are produced
by two needles attached to a prong of an electrically
11.1 INTERFERENCE OF LIGHT
maintained tuning fork.
If two or more sets of waves are allowed to pass circular
These
through and cross one another in the same medium, waves would travel out
they would behave as if other were not present i.e the in the form of crests
effects produced by one wave would be totally and troughs on the
independent of the effects due to other wave. The surface of water.
resultant effect depend on the phases of the waves as
Suppose continuous
well as their amplitudes. The resultant effect at any . lines the
represent
point, at any instant of time is governed by principle crests while dotted
of superposition. lines represent troughs.
Principle of superposition:
A The points at which a
crest falls upon crest
When two or more waves overlap, the B
and a trough on trough
resultant displacement at any point and at any
instant is equal to the vector sum of instantaneous are marked by the
displacements that would be produced at the point crosses(x). At such
by the individual waves if each wave is present points the resultant

alone. ***- --*

displacement is
maximum, the waves
With a single source of disturbance the reinforce each other
distribution of energy in the surrounding medium is and the inference is
uniform. However, when there are two adjacent called constructive
Sources giving Out continuous waves of same
interference.
wavelength and having the constant phase difference, Fig. 11.1 Interference of
the distribution of energy is no longer uniform. At the waves on the
some points where the crest of one wave falls upon surface of water.
the trough of the other and vice versa, the resultant

171
 For Constructive interference
While other points where a crest falls upon a
trough and vice versa, are marked by circles (o).
These are the points corresponds to minimum (zero) BP-AP= 2n () where n = 0, 1,2, 3,-
displacement. (Such points on the surface of water band is obtained at O and
remain stationary and the resultant effect at these Ifn = 0, central bright
the second, the third etc
points is called destructive interference. for n =
1, 2, 3, etc, the first,
either side of O.
bands would be obtained
on
bright
In the case of light waves, bright and dark bands
Destructive interference:
are formed in the region of interference pattern.
at P (Fig.11.2) will be
Due to interference of two light waves, Ifthe two waves.reaching destructive
out of phase, will
then they produce
reaistribution of energy takes place in the medium. interference. The point P will be dark when phase
The light energy, which disappears at the position (2m 1)t or path
difference is t, 3t, 57, - - - - -

of minima, appears at the position of maxima.

ie. odd
diferenceis. (2m - 1)
X

multiple of
For destructive interference

BP-AP= (2m- 1)

where m =1,2, 3,
- - -

band will be flanked

on
Thus, the central bright
been alternately of
both sides by bands which have
These bands are
minimum and maximum intensity.
interference bands or fringes.
termed as the two
from
Let, the two waves originating
B sources A and B (Fig. 11.2) be denoted by
Y1= a sin ot
and y2 a sin (@t + 6)
Fig. 11.2 Interference due to two light sources. difference between the
where is the phase
waves.
Consider the two sources of light A and B (Fig
It can be shown that, the resultant displacement
11.2) which are lying very close to each other and
emitting out continuously waves of monochromatic at P is
light of wavelength A and of the same frequency, y= y1+Y2 =R sin (ot +¢)
amplitude and phase. At point 0, which is equidistant
where the resultant amplitude
from A and B the two waves reaching at O will be in
same phase. Hence they will produce constructive R = a2j + a + 2a1a2 cos o
interference and the point O will be bright. In this case and the phase angle
both waves travel equal distance and path difference
a Sin o
(BO AO) will be zero. tan- tan-1
Constructive interference: The resultant wave is also a harmonic wave of
Consider the point P in the medium. The path the same frequency. Since the intensity of a wave is
difference between the waves reaching at P is proportional to the square of the amplitude, we have
BP- AP. The point P will be bright if two waves
arrive at P in phase i.e. phase difference is 0, 27, 47, IR a a +a2 + 2a, a, cos o
For constructive interference
--,2nt or the path difference is 0, i
0 , 2t, 47, .. or cos o = +1

2n ie even multiple of max (a +a,)?

172
 For destructive interference observe interference
Is it possible to
emitting from two
T , 3t, 57, fringes with light
.. or
cos o=-1 sources? Why?
min O
(a -

a,)?
waves must be in the
Or maX (iii) The two interfering
T polarization.
.(11.1) same state of
min
(a a2)2
two of light must emit light
sources
where r= (iv) The
is
a2
called amplitude ratio. waves of equal
amplitude or intensity.
f intensities of the bright and
I and lh are the intensities of We know that the
two interfering dark fringes have been given
as
(a + a) and
waves, then
where a and a2 denote
IR =I+l2+2 1lh (a a) respectively, waves.
If
cos .(11.2)
the amplitudes of the two If a =
a2,
I =l2 I, then =
then maximum contrast would be obtained, as

will have zero intensity. If a *

IR I+I+2VI.I cos
=
the dark fringes
interference pattern
21 a then the intensity in the
=
(1 +cos Ù) ..(11.3) minimum but not
will vary from maximum to
OR will be reduced
IR 4I
cosI: (1 + cos o) =2 cos become zero. Therefore contrast
become less
and the interference pattern will
1e.
max 4I and Imin =0 sharp.
11.2 CONDITIONS FOR PRODUCING STEADY waves
Is it necessary that interfering
INTERFERENCEPATTERN: should haveequal amplitude?
n order to obtain well defined observable
interference pattern, the following basic conditions (v) The sources of light must be narrow

must be satisfied. from

If the sources are broad, the waves starting
) The two sources of light must be coherent different points on the sources travel different
The two sources of light must be emitting distances to reach the same point on the screen.
light waves of equal frequency and which are These waves will interfere with one another and
always in same phase or with constant phase their own interference pattern will be obtained.
difference are known as coherent sources. The resultant interference pattern so obtained
will not be clear and distinct. On the contrary
For thisit is necessary that the two sources
there may be uniform illumination.
should be derived from same original source.
The changes in phase of original source are (vi) The separation between the two light sources
simultaneously produced in the virtual or should be as small as possible.
maintained
secondary sources and hence a
If the sources are sufficiently close to each
constant phase difference. This condition must
other, then the interference fringes are widely
be satisfied to obtain steady interference pattern.
spaced and can be seen clearly.
(ii) The sources of light must be monochromatic
(vii) The distance of the screen from the two
A monochromatic source of light is a source sources should be large.
which emits light waves of only one
not If the screen is quite far from the sources, then
wavelength. When light sources
are

monochromatic, then the sources emit light the fringewidth should be appreciable and
waves of more than one wavelength. There may widely spaced fringes are obtained.
due to
be constructive interference at one point interfering must travel in
destructive interference at
(vii) The two waves
one wavelength and
This same direction.
the same point due to another wavelength.
diffused and indistinct interference
gives Can white light produce interference
pattern.
pattern? What is its nature?
173
 experiment:
Young's
Importance of show
11.3 YOUNG'S EXPERIMENT: successful experiment to
It was the first
demonstrated for the (i)
Young in 1801,
waves.
Thomos interference of light
His the
first time the phenomenon of interference of light. to calculate
it is possible
In this experiment,
arrangement is shown
in Fig. (11.3). (ii) From this
monochromatic light using
through a of
experiment sunlight was allowed to pass wavelength
allowed to width, d
pinhole S. The light emerging from S was Xd where Xis the fringe
S1 and S2 kept very close
to formula =
pass through two pinholes slits and D is
distance
distance away between two
each other and kept at considerable is distance
S2 act as two source.)
from S. These two pinholes Si and between screen &
waves
coherent sources. The two sets of spherical OF
interfere with each other and
TREATMENT

emerging from Si and S2

ANALYTICAL

11.4
pattern of varying INTERFERENCEBANDS:
produce a symmetrical interference slit which is
(Fig. 11.4) is
narrow
intensity on the screen. Suppose S
monochromatic light of wavelength
illuminated by narrow slits which are
two parallel
(A). S and S, are equidistant from
short distance d and are
separated by at S, and S2
in
waves from S will arrive
S. The light w a v e s will
and S2 the
the same phase. Beyond S, will
WAVN proceed as they
had started from
and S2 and
S
s c r e e n XY kept
AAW/ on the
interference pattern
produce an and S2.
AVVV at distance D
from the s o u r c e s S

VAVV
M
S d/2
S
Fig. 11.3 Young's Experiment
M,
circular linesrepresènt
In the Figure, continuous
crests and dotted
circular lines represent troughs of D
crests of one wave are
waves. At point marked by (x), one
the other, or troughs
superposed on crests of Such
on the troughs of
other.
wave are superposed 11.4 Theory of interference bands
At points Fig.
points therefore of maximum brightness.
are
crests of one wave are superposed on
marked by (0),
wave or vice a versa. These points Let the perpendicular bisector OM of the line
troughs of the other
are therefore of minimum brightness. joining S and S2 meet the screen at point O. Since
S0 =S,0, the path difference between
waves
the pinholes
In Young's double slit experiment,
and S2 were replaced by
narrow slits and sunlight reaching O from S, and S2 is zero, therefore there is a
S
monochromatic The number of alternate
light. bright point at O. The point O is called the centre of
by the the interference pattern. Suppose P be any point on the
and dark fringes running parallel to length
bright These fringes screen at distance x from O. The path difference
on the screen.
of the slits were observed between the waves reaching P from S and S, is
interference
are of equal
width and they are called
fringes or bands. (SP suppose S,M
S,P), and SM2 are

perpendiculars on the screen.

174
 From Fig. (11.4), we find that
band (fringe) width
Expression forthe
PM,=X- and
PM, =x+2 The distance
between the center of two
called band width
dark bands is
In AS,MP adjacent bright or
or fringe width.
(SP)2 =

S,M,)?+ (PM, Let xn and xn + 1 denotes

the distances of nth and
the same side of central bright
(n+1)th bright band
on
.
(SP2 =
D2+| 11.5) band, then from eq. (11.9)
In AS M,P AD
nd
(S,P)2 =
S,M,?+ (PM,
n +1 (n +1)
(SP)2= D2+ (11.6)
AD
= (n+1-n)
SP-(5,P =D-(r+4-D-( n +1
X AD
d
...(11.12)
(S,P-S,P) (S,P+ S,P) =x2+ xd+-+xd
the band width or fringe
where X =+1-Xh is
SaP-S,P = 2xd
SP+S,P width.
the distances of
In practice, the distances x and d are very small
Similarly m and xm +1 denotes
side of
mh and (m + 1)th dark band on the same
as compared to D. To a first approximation we can
central bright band, then from eq. (11.11)
write

S,P = S,P = D or S,P+ S,P = 2D

m (2m-1)
The path difference between two waves is
given by m+1 2(m + 1) -1]
2xd xd
S,P-S,P= (11.7)
+1-m= [2(m + 1)- 1 -2m+ 1]
Now the intensity at P will be maximum or
minimum according to the path difference. The point AD
d
P will be bright if the path difference is an even
CL .(11.13)
multiple of
where X= m+1m
ie.SP-S,P=-2) (11.8)
From eq. (11.12) and (11.13)
where n =
0,1, 2, 3, - - -

X = X =
or =n (11.9)
Thus the distance between two adjacent bright
The point P will be dark if the path difference is bands or dark bands is equal i.e. band width of bright
band and dark band is same.
anoddmultiple of
AD 2AD 3AD
The bright bands occur at * =
0,
d d
i.e SP-S,P D (2m-1). 11.10)
AD 31D 5AD
and dark bands occur at =
2d 2d 2d
where m =1,2, 3, --
D It also proves that interference fringes are
or x =
(2m -

1) 2d 11.11)
equally spaced.
175
 Displacement of fringes Biprism experiment
of light, an optical
To measure the wavelength
If a thin transparent plate of thickness t and bench is used. The optical bench
is about one and half
refractive index is introduced in thepath SP (see
meter long and scale is
marked along its length. Four
Fig. 11.4) of the interfering waves, it is observed (B),
adjustable stands carrying the slit (S), biprism
that the entire fringe pattern (or system) is shifted (E) are
Lens (L)and the micrometer eyepiece
upward through a distance given by mounted on the optical bench
as shown in Fig (11.6).
be rotated about
The slit and the biprism
can

o -1)t horizontal axis.

The introduction of the plate has no effect on the
fringe width. The shift occurs because the original
Source
path difference SP SP is changed by
B Biprism, Slit
L= Convex lens, E = Eyepiece
(4-1)t.
Fig 11.6 Biprism experimental arrangement
What happens to the interference pattern,
Initially the slit, biprism and eyepiece
are kept at
when the phase diference between two sources
in same
the same height such that their centers
are
of light changes with time? and is illuminated by
line. The slit is made narrow
The
11.5 MEASUREMENT OF WAVELENGTH BY sodium vapour lamp (monochromatic light).
close
stands carrying the slit and biprism are kept
BIPRISM EXPERIMENT: is now
together. The slit is kept vertical. The biprism
its
A biprism consists of two identical thin prisms rotated slowly about a horizontal axis, so that
of very small refracting angle (30 to 1°) with their to slit. When the
refracting edge becomes parallel
bases joined together. Thus the biprism abc (Fig.11.5) refracting edge of biprismbecomes exactly parallel to
is a thin glass prism of obtuse angle of about 179. slit, the interference pattern consisting of alternate
bright and dark bands appears in the field of view
the eyepiece. Now we can determine the wavelength
oflight using eq.(11.12)
0 X or =
Measurements:
C
-D i) The distance between slit and eyepiece D can be
easily measured from the scale marked on the
Fig 11.5 Ray diagram of biprism experiment. optical bench.
(i) The band width X is measured with the help of

A monochromatic light of wavelength A from a

micrometer eyepiece. The vertical crosswire in
the eyepiece is adjusted at the center of a bright
source passes through a narrow slit S. The biprism is
fringe. The micrometer reading is noted. Now
placed infront of the sit with its refracting edge eyepiece is moved horizontally until the
parallel to slit. The light passes through the two halves crosswire has moved over a known number N of
of the biprism and the refracted rays appear to come the bright fringes, again micrometer reading is
from the two virtual sources S and S2 of the slit, noted. The difference between the two
readings
These virtual sources are derived from the same of the micrometer gives the
distance through
x
which eyepiece is moved. Then the
original source, act as coherent sources and they are
average
formed in the plane, of slit. The, waves from these distance between two adjacent bright fringes is
sources interfere with each other and interference given by.
fringes are observed in the shaded region through
micrometer eyepiece.
X=
176
h h, h h
.
.
I
 The secondary
of the slit.
Let C be the
center
enter the geometrical shadow CP, come
[Fig. 11.8(b)]. When the direction parallel to
size of obstacle or slit is small and travelling in the
comparable to the waves
central image
1s
ou
of light, light bends around the edges of to focus at P, and bright
wavelength
the obstacle or slit and enters in the regions of The secondary waves from po1ns cuu
lower halves
CA and CB
and
geometrical shadow. and situated in the upper in reaching P,
and
same distance
of the slit travel the
The bending of light near the edges of an
difference is zero becausc 1 I C
hence the path
USteie or slit and spreading into the region of same in pnase.
secondary waves meet at Po are
be
etrical shadow is known as diffraction of
waves
reinforce one another and P, will
light. secondary central
intensity.
maximum
It is called
a point of in diffraction
Examples: maximum and it is the
brightest band
i) When the sun is seen through a fine piece of
cloth, a coloured spectra is obsérved. pattern.
minimum:
Position of secondary
ii) border that surrounds the profile in
secondary waves travelling
luminous
The
of a mountain just before sun rises behind it. Now, consider the
an angle 0
to the direction
the direction, inclined at in this
waves travelling
What should be the order of size of an All the secondary
CPo point P
The
obstacle or aperature to produce diffraction of direction reach the point P on the screen.

light? will be of maximum or minimum intensity depending

BE between the secondary
ypes of diftraction The diffraction upon the path difference
waves starting from A and B.
phenomenon is broadly classified into two types for
the convinience of mathematical treatments.
BE
From AABE, sine= AB
() Fraunhofer diffraction : The source of light sine
AB sine =a
and the screen on which diffraction pattern is orpath difference BE=
obtained are effectively at infinite distance from difference is equal to a which is
If this path
the diffracting system. In this case, we consider wavelength of light used, then P will be point ot
plane wavefront. The diffraction pattern 1s minimum intensity. The whole wavefront can be
obtained by using convex lens. considered to be two halves CA and CB and if
the
ii) Fresnel diffraction : The source of light and path difference between the secondary waves from A
screen are kept at finite distance from the and B is a, then the path difference between the
diffracting system. In this case, we consider secondary waves from these points A and C is ,
cylindrical or spherical wavefronts.
Fraunhofer diffraction due to a single slit: Similarly every point in the upper half CA, there is a

corresponding point in the lower half CB and the path

Suppose a parallel beam of monochromatic light
difference between the secondary waves from these
of wavelength A is incident normally upon a narrow
slit AB of width 'a' which is kept perpendicular to the points is Thus, destructive interference takes place
plane of paper. Suppose the diffracted light is focused and the point P will be of minimum intensity. If the
by a convex lens L on the screen XY which is kept in
direction of secondary waves is such that BE = 2,
the focal plane of the lens. (Fig. 11.9)
then also the point where they meet the screen will be
According to Huygens' principle each and every of minimum intensity. This is so because the
point on AB is a source of secondary disturbance. secondary waves from the corresponding points of

lower half differ in path by and again gives the

position of minimum intensity. In general
a sin Gn = na

BE sin en (11.17)
Screen
where n t1,t 2,t3---
Fig 11.9 Diffraction due to a single slit.
178
 Here gives the
Intensity
direction of the n
minimum.
Position of secondary
maximum:
lf,however, the path difference is odd
multiple
of, the direction AA.
of secondary màxima is obtained. Po

In this case, sine

a
sine, =
(2n +1) sine
of intensity against
Fig 11.10 Graph
sin 2n+ 1) 11.18)
2a
maximum is proportional
The width of central
n=t1,t2,t3--- to the wavelength of light.
With red light, the
width

The is more than the

violet light.
diffraction pattern due to a single slit of the central maximum maximum is
consists of central bright maximum at P, followed
a
With narrow the width of centralslit 'a' is large,
slit,
of
by alternate secondary minima and maxima on both more. From eq. (11.19).if the width maxima and
sides of Po. sinG is small and hence 0
is small. The
maximum at Po. But
minima are close to central
very
Width of central maximum: This results
with narrow slit 'a' is small and 0 is large.
If the lens L is very near the slit or the screen is diffraction maximum and
minimum on
in a distinct
far away from the lens L, then focal length () of the both the sides of Po
is approximately equal to the distance (D) of the
lens
slit from the screen. 11.7 RAYLEIGH'S CRITERION:
If is small, then the image of a
According to geometrical optics,
instrument must
sin6 0 D (11.19)
point object produced by an optical
be a geometric point. In practice, when the beamn of

where x is the distance of the first secondary light from a point object passes through the objective
minimum from Po of a optical instrument, with lens acts like a circular
instead of
aperture then it produces diffraction pattern
For first secondary minimum a point image. The diffraction pattern is a bright disc
surrounded by alternate dark and bright ings, whose
sin 6 (11.20) intensity goes on decreasing It is known as Airy's
disc. If there are two point objects lying close to each
From equation (11.19) and (11.20)
other, the two diffracting patterns are produced. Theen
they may or may not be seen as two separate distinct
objects due to overlapping of their diffraction pattern.
(The smallest angular or linear separation
or X (11.21)
between the-two point objects at which they appear to
The width of central maximum
= 2x which is be just resolved is called limit of resolution of an
given as
optical instrument and the reciprocal of the limit of
resolution is called its resolving power.
W (11.22)
According to Rayleigh's criterion, the images of
half width of the central two point objects close to each other are regarded as
Note: The angular
just.separated if the central maximum of one falls on
6= and Angular width the first minimum of the other. In other words, when
maximum is given by
central bright image of one falls on the first dark ring
20 if 0 is small of the other, the two images are said to be just
resolved [Fig 11.11 (a)

179
 11.23)
1.22

M AA
(a) Images just resolved (b) Images well resolved (C) Images unresolved
the objects A
/d 2 sin
Equation (11.23)
and B
is
are self
based

i l l u m i n a t e d with
are
on

luminous.
the

light. It is
assumption

But generally,
found that

mode
that

of
these objects the
The two
Fig 11.11
objects are said to be well resolved, if illumination. According to depends
Abbe,e
upon
theiust
least
resolved
distance
is
the resolving power

the separation between the central maximum of the between two objects so that e
two objects is greater than the distance between the given by
central maximum and first minimum of any of the two (11.24)
objects [Fig. 11.11 (b)] 2 sin X
an oil
microscope,
The two objects are said to be unresolved, if thee resolving power
In a high between the
separation between the central maximum of the two the space
immersion objective
is used i.e.
objects is less than the distance between the central with an oil (cedar
and the object is filled
maximum and first minimum of any of the two
objective Firstly the loss of
two advantages.
wood oil). This has
objects [Fig 11.11 (c)] lens surface
is decreased and
reflection at first
light by of the m i c o p e 1s

OF MICROscOPE secondly the resolving power

i.8 RESOLVING POWER increased.
AND TELESCOP resolved images,
Minimum separation for
(A) Resolving power of microscope:
(11.25)
The minimum distance by which two point d
2 u sin &
objects are separated from each other so that their
index of an oil. The
image as produced by the microscope are just seen where i s the refractive
separate is called the limit of resolution and the is called the numerical
expression jusina in eq.(11.25))
reciprocal of limit of resolution is called the of the microscope and is
resolving
aperture (NA) of the object
power of microscope. used.
characteristic of the particular objective
of resolution of a
Equation (11.25) gives limit
resolution is the
microscope. The reciprocal of limit of
resolving power of a microscope.

sina (11.26)
R.P. of microscope =

B
The resolving power of microscope can be
N increased by increasing its numerical aperture
(usino) and by decreasing the wavelength of light ()
Fig 11.12 Resolving power of microscope
used to illuminate the objects. The R.P. of microscope
can be increased by using ultraviolet light to
B are two point objects at a
Suppose that A and
distances d apart and A' and B' are their respective illuminate the objects. We can not increase o.
images formed by the objective MN of a microscope because aperture of lens would increase in that case.
11.12). A' and B' are surrounded by alternate Also use quartz lens for increasing
(Fig. R.P.
dark and bright diffraction rings. According to
Rayleigh's criterion, the two images are said to be just (B) Resolving power of telescope:
resolved if the position of the central maximum of one A telescope is an instrument which is used to
see
falls on the first minimum of the other and vice versa. the distant objects clearly. The resolving power of a
Let the object A subtends angle 20 at the aperture of
the objective MN. Then for the condition of resolution
telescope is defined as the reciprocal of the least angle
subtended at the objective by the two distant
it can be shown that the separation d between the two point
objects A and B should be such that
objects which can be distinguished just resolved in the
focal plane of the telescope.
180
 deL--u or de=

holds good for rectangular

This equation circular
Airy, the equation for
-- -L--=
apertures.
According to
aperture is

de
1.22 (11.27)
B a
and a is
Fig. 11.13 Resolving power of telescope. where i s the
wavelength of light
the limit of
Here de represents
Let de be the of telescope.
gives
angular separation between two aperture
The reciprocal of
de
neighbouring points lying on distant object and a is resolution of the telescope.
the diameter of the the resolving power of the telescope.
objective of telescope. Consider
the rays of light from two
neighbouring points on a R. P of telescope de
distant object. The image of each point is a Fraunhofer
diffraction pattern, contains central maximum (11.28)
followed by secondary minimum and maximum. P1 1.22
and P2 be the positions of the central maximum of the is clear that a
From equation (11.28), it
two images, as shown in
Fig. (11.13). of the objective has
telescope with large diameter
According to Rayleigh's criterion, these two higher resolving power
images P and P2 are said to be just resolved if the
central maximum in diffraction pattern of first object 11.9 DIFFERENCE BETWEEN
falls on the first minimum of the diffraction pattern of AND DIFFRACTION :
INTERFERENCE
second object and vice versa. The path difference the result of
Interference pattern is obtained as
between AP, and BP is zero and hence Pis the different
interaction of coming from
light two
position of central maximum of the image of first wavefronts from two coherent sources while
object. The path difference between the secondary result of
diffraction pattern is obtained as the
waves travelling in the direction BP2 and APz is equal the
interaction of light coming from different parts of
to BE. same wavefront.
From A ABE Interference fringes are of the same width while
BE = AB sinde diffraction fringes are not of the same width.
= a.de In interference patterm all bright bands are of

If this path difference a.de = A, the position of

same intensity while in diffraction pattern all bright
P2 corresponds to the first minimum of the first image. bands are not of same intensity. Intensity is maximum
But P2 is also the position of central maximum of the for central maximum in diffraction pattern.

second image. Thus Rayleigh's condition for just The dark fringes are perfectly dark in
resolution is satisfied, if interference pattern but in diffraction pattern they are
not perfectly dark.
a.de =

SUMMARY
(1) The modification in the intensityof light (3) For destructive interference i.e. for a dark point,
(redistribution of light energy) produced by the the path difference should be odd multiple of
superposition of two or more light waves is
called interference of light. or the phase difference should be odd multiple
of n.
For constructive interference i.e. for a bright
(2) (4) When the two waves of same intensity having
the path difference should be even
point, phase difference are interfering. the resultant
should be
multiple of 5 or the phase difference intensity at a point on the screen is given by

even multiple of t R=21 (1 +cos o) or Ig =4Icos?

181
 of an
near the edges
(5) In order to obtain well defined observable The bending of light
steady (11) the region of
obstacle or slit and
spreading into
interference pattern, the sources must be diffraction of
is known as
coherent, monochromatic, narrow and close to geometrical shadow

each other. Also the two sources of light must light.

the sources of light
emit light waves of equal amplitude. Fraunhofer diffraction.
(12) In infinite
effectively at
an
are
(6) Thomos Young performed a simple experiment and the screen

distance from the diffracting system.

to demonstrate the interference of light.
to single
slit consists
Young's double slit experiment supports wave diffraction pattern due
(13) The followed by
maximum
theory of light. of a central bright
and maximum on
minimum
alternate secondary
(7) The distance of nth bright band on the screen maximum. The
both sides of central bright
from the centre of interference pattern is given minimum is
angular position of nth secondary
by given by equation,
DAD

sin6,
where n0, 1,2, 3, -

nth secondary
maximum

The distances of mth dark band on the screen

The angular position of
(8)
is given by equation,
from the centre of interference pattern is given
n+12
by sine 2a

m(2m-1) criterion, the images of

(14) According to Rayleigh's
to each other are
two point objects close
where m=1,2,3,- central maximum
regarded as just resolved if the
(9) The distance between the centers of two
the first minimum of the other
or
of one falls on
adjacent bright or dark bands is called band vice versa.
width or fringe width (X)
(15) The resolving power of microscope
X
2 Sin &
(10) In biprism experiment, the wavelength of
monochromatic light is given by (16) The resolving power of telescope

Xd 1 a
D where d= yd,da de 1.22

ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLES

1) The optical path difference between two path difference is even multiple of , it
identical waves arriving at a point is 371a. s the
satisfies the condition for constructive
point bright or dark? If the path difference is interference.
0.24 mm., calculate the wavelength of light
used. Hence the point will be bright.
Path difference = 3712 = 0.24 x 10-3 m
Solution: path difference
=
371
. = = 0,24x10-3
=742 371
= 6.469 x 10-7 m

= 6469 Å

182
(2) n
biprism experiment, light of wavelength XB AR J
O
5200 A is used to
get an ínterference pattern on
the screen. The 3,2.x 1048X10-7
fringewidth changes by 1.3 mm =
3,2.x 10 6.4x 10
when the screen is moved
towards biprism by 50
cm. Find the distance = 2.4x 104 m
between two virtual.
images of the slit. = 0.24 mm

Data: 0.32- 0.24 0.08 mm

A= 5200 À
=
= 5.2x 10-7m XR XB=
K-X2 = 1.3 mm = 1.3 x 10-3 m
D-D2 = 50 cm =0.5 m 5100 A from a
4) Green light of wavelength If the
double slit.
Solution narrow slit incident on a
on a screen 2
overall separatation of 10 fringes
X-X2= m away is 2 cm, find the slit separation.

5100 A 5.1 x 10-m

D-D,
=
Data: 2 =

D = 2m
d A(D-D,)
10X= 2 2 x 102 m
X X2 cm =

d=?
5.2x10-7x0.5
1.3x 10-3 X= 0.2 x 10-2 m

= 2x 10-4 m
Solution d 5.1x10-7>
0.2x 102
X
= 0.2 mm.
= 5.1 x 104 m

= 0.51 mm
(3) The distance between two consecutive
bright
bands in biprism experiment is 0.32 mm, when

red light of wavelength 6400 Ais used. By how (5) In biprism experiment the fringes are observed
much will this distance change if blue light of in the focal plane of the eyepiece at a distance of
wavelength 4800 A is used with the same 1.2 m from slit. The distance between the
central bright band and the 20 bright band is
setting?
0.4 cm. When convex lens is interposed
Data R = 6400 =6.4x 10-7 m between the biprism and eyepiece at a distance
of 90 cm from the eyepiece, the distance
Xg 0.32 mm = 3.2 x 104 m between two magnified virtual images is found
to be 0.9 cm. Find the
ng 4800 A = 4.8 x 10-7 m
wavelength of light used.
Data: D 1.2 m
Xp ? Xa-Xs= ?
20X =0.4 cm
Solution:
or X = 0.4
20
= 2x 10-2 cm = 2 x 104 m
90 cm = 0.9 m
X d
=
1.2-0.9 =
0.3 mm

=
0.9 cm = 0.9 x 10-2m
?

183
 Data: D = 2m
Solution = 0.2 mm
= 2 x 10m
a

= 5mm = 5 x 10-3m
X
d
d 0.9x ,0.3
10-2x09
=

= ?
= 0.3 x 10-2 m
minimum, sin6
=

Solution : For first

A =_2X104x0.3x 10-2 in radian, then
1.2 measured
If e is small and
= 5 x 10-7m sine

5000 Å. 8

6) In biprism experiment, the slit is illuminated by Also 0

a light of wavelength 4800 A. The distance
between the slit and biprism is 20 cm and the = 0-4
distance between the biprism and eyepiece is
80 cm. If the distance between two virtual 5 x 10-7m
sources is 0.30 cm. Determine the distance
between 5h bright band on one side of the =5000 A
central band and 5th dark band on the other side.
in diameter
(8) A converging lens of telescope 3 cm
Data: =4800 A= 4.8 x 107m has focal length 20 cm. (a) What angular

D
separation must two distant point objects have to
=
(20+80) cm =100 cm =1m satisfy Rayleigh's criterion? Assume that a=
d = 0.3 cm = 3 x 10-3 m
5500 (b) How far apart are the centres ofthe
Xs+X5 ? diffraction pattern in the focal plane of the lens?
Solution: Data a 3.00 cm =3x 10-2 m
5AD f = 20 cm = 20 x 102 m

= 5500 À = 5.5 x 10-7m

AD D
X=2x5-1)2 45 de= ?

X
g+X = +4.5
Solution:
9.525x48 x 10-7x1
3x 10-3 de = 1221.22 x5.5 x10
3 x 10-2
1.52 x 10m
2.237x 10-5 rad
= 1.52 mm.
Also de =
(7) In Fraunhofer diffraction due to a narrow slit, a
screen is placed 2 metre away from the lens too x =
f.de =20x 10-2x 2.237x 10-5
obtain the pattern. If the slit width is 0.2 mm
44.74 x 10-7
and the first minimum ie 5 mm on either side of
the central maximum, find the wavelength uf = 44740Á

light.

184
 is
9) When of the slits in Young's experiment
Monochromatic light of wavelength 4300 A
(11) one
sheet of thickness 3.6
falls
on slit of width a. For what covered with a transparent
value of a, the central fringe shifts to a position
first maximum falls at x 10-3 cm, the
30°? the 30th bright fringe.If
originally occupied by
refractive index of the
Data = 43000Å A = 6000 A, find the
4.3 sheet.
=
x 10-7m
3.6x 105 m
t=3.6 x 10-3
=
cm
30 Data

a = ? 30X = X0

Solution: For first maximum, we have

A =
6000 À
=6x 10-7 m
a sine = ?

30X = Xo
Solution:
a 3 3x4.3x 10-7
2 sin 0 2 sin 30
30 (-1)t
d
3x4.3x10-7
2x0.5 (-1) 3 0
or
=
12.9x 10-7 m
30x6x107
= 12900 ÄÅ 3.6x 10-5
= 0.5
(10) Sodium light of wavelength 5890 A is used to
view an object under a microscope, The
= 1.5
numerical aperture of the objective is 0.12, find
the limit of resolution and resolving power of
the ratio of intensity at
(12) In Young's experiment,
microscope. the maxima and minima in the interference
Data pattern is 25: 9. What will be the ratio of widths

= 5890 A
of the two slits?

5.890 x 10" m max

Data min
Numerical aperture (N.A.) = 0.12

Limit of resolution d =?
W2
R.P ?

Solution: Solution: max

min -(FE-
5.890 x 10-7
d 2N.A. 2x0.12 i o or r= 4

= 2.454x 10-6m
1.e. r = = 4
P

1 0.4075 x 106
6
2.454 x 10-6
=
But 16

= 4.075 x 10 per meter

Since intensity of he wave is directly
proportional to the width of slit.

185
 We have when =
16 or 16:1

(13) Consider interference between

waves from two R=I+41+2 VI.4.cos
sources of intensities I and
41. Find the intensity
at a point where phase difference is 51
( cos0
(i)and
ii) T
when o = T,
Data:I =l and I, =41 2I.4I. cos T
I+ 41 +
IR =

Solution: IR I1 +l2 +21h cos = 5I+ 2.21 (-1)

( cos Tt=-1)

= 5I-4I=I

THEORY QUESTIONS
(1) What are
coherent sources? of virtual
How are they (10) Draw a ray diagram showing position
produced? sources and region of interference in biprism
(2) State the conditions for experiment.
getting steady
interference pattern.
(11) Draw neat labelled ray diagrams to get
(3) Explain why the two of light must be of
sources
magnified and diminished images of two virtual
equal intensity to obtain well defined sources using convex lens in biprism
interference pattern. experiment.
(4) State the conditions to get constructive and
(12) Explain the phenomenon of diffraction of light.
destructive interference of light.
(13) What is the difference between Fraunhofer and
(5) Describe Young's experiment to observe an Fresnel type of diffraction?
interference of light and write two points of
importance of the experiment. (14) Describe with neat diagram, the Fraunhofer
diffraction pattern due to single slit.
(6) Give the theory of interference bands and hence
obtain (15) State and explain Rayleigh's criterion.
an expression for fringewidth.
(16) What is meant by limit of resolution and the
(7) Using analytical method, obtain an expression
for the path difference between two light waves.
resolving power of microscope?
(17) What is meant by limit of
(8) Assuming expression for path difference the
angular resolution and
resolving power of telescope?
between two light waves for bright bands and
(18) On what factors
dark bands, obtain an expression for the band the resolving power of
width.
microscope depends? How can it be increased?
(19) Distinguish between the phenomenon
(9) Describe biprism experiment to find the interference and diffraction. of
wavelength of monochromatic light. Draw the
(20) Represent graphically the
diffraction dueintensity
necessary ray diagrams. in the case of distribution
to
single slit.

186
 PROBLEMS FOR PRACTICE
(1) Monochromatic light from a narrow slit and Q are on the opposite sides of
illuminates two narrow slits 0.3
(points P
mm apart
producing an
interference pattern with bright
central bright band).
fringcs 1.5 mm apart on a screen 75 em (Ans: 15 bright, 14 dark)
Find the away.
wavelength of the light. How will the
fringe width be altered if (a) the In biprism experiment,
the slit is illuminated by
screen is doubled distance of the (7)
and (b) the
the slits is doubled? separation between red light of wavelength
6400 A and the cross

to the centre of 3
wire of eyepiece is adjusted
blue light it is found that
(Ans : 6000 A 3.0 mm, 0.75 mm) bright band. By using
of the cross wire.
,

(2) In 4th bright band is at the centre

Young's double slit experiment the slits are Find the wavelength of blue light.
0.5 mm apart and interference is observed on a
Screen placed at a distance
of 100 cm from the
(Ans: 4800 A)
slits. It is found that the 9h diffraction pattern the distance
bright fringe is at a (8) In a single slit
distance 8.835 mm from the second dark the right and the
fringe between the first minimum on
from the centre of the fringe pattern. Find the The screen
first minimum on the left is 5.2 mm.

wavelength of light used. from

(Ans: 5890 Á) on which the pattern is displayed is 80 cm
O
Calculate
(3) In biprism experiment, the eye piece is placed at the slit and the wavelength is 5460 A .

a distance of 1.2 metre from the sources. The the slit width.
distance between the virtual sources was found (Ans : 0.168 mm)
to be 7.5 x 10 m. Find the wavelength of light
(9) Diffraction pattern of single slit of width 0.5 cm
i the eye-piece is to be moved transversely
is formed lens of focai length 40 cm.
through a distance of 1.888 cm for 20 fringes. by a

Calculate the distance between the first dark and

(Ans: 5900 A) the next bright fringe from the axis. Wavelength
A biprism is placed 5 cm from slit illuminated of light used is 4890 .
(4)
o

by light of wavelength 5890 A. The

sodium (Ans: 1.956 x 10-2 mm)
width of the fringes obtained on a screen 75 cm
(10) The semivertical angle of cone of the rays
from the biprism is 9.424 x 10-2 cm. What is the
incident on the objective of microscope is 20°. If
distance between two coherent sources?
the wavelength of incident light ray is 6600 A.
(Ans : 0.5 mm)
calculate the smallest distance between two
is situated at 6.5 cm and 6.65 cm from
(5) A point points which can be just resolved.
coherent sources. Find the nature of
two

illumination at the point if wavelength of light is (Ans: for luminous 10720 Å

5000Å. (Ans: bright) fornonluminous 8772 A)

the wavelength of (11) What is the minimum angular separation
(6) In Young's experiment,
between two stars if telescope is used to observe
monochromatic light used is
6000 A. The
them with an objective of circular aperture 20
difference between the rays from
optical path
sources at point P on the screen cm? The wavelength of light used is 5900 A .
the two coherent

is 0.0075 mmpoint Q on the screen is

and at a
(Ans: 3.6x 10-6 rad)
and dark bands
0.0015 mm. How many bright
two points P and Q?
are observed between the

187
 in
(12) In Young's doùble slit experiment using
Young's (13) Two slits in Young's experiment have widths
the ratio 81 1. What is the ratio of the
monochromatic light, the fringe pattern shifts by
from them ?
certain distance on the screen when mica sheet amplitudes of light waves coming
of refractive index 1.6 and thickness 1.964 (Ans.:9: 1)
microns is introduced in the path of one of the1
(14) Find the ratio of intensities at two points xand y
interfering waves. The mica sheet is then slit experiment
on a screen in Young's double
removed and the distance between the slits and and S, have path
where waves from S
screen is doubled. It is found that the distance
between successive maxima now is same as thee difference ofi) 0 and (i)
observed fringe shift upon the introduction of (Ans.: 2: 1)
the mica sheet. Calculate the wavelength of the
Two coherent sources, whose intensity ratio is
monochromatic light used in the experiment. (15)
81:1 produce interference fringes. Calculate the
(Ans.: 5892 ratio of intensity of maxima and minima in the

fringe system. (Ans.:25: 16)