Question

In diffraction due to a single slit, the phase difference between light waves reaching a point on the screen is 5 π.

Explain whether a bright or a dark fringe will be formed at the point.

Answer 1

A phase difference of 5 π in single-slit diffraction results in destructive interference, forming a dark fringe on the screen.

Step-by-step explanation:

In diffraction due to a single slit, the phase difference between light waves determining whether a bright or dark fringe will be formed is crucial. A phase difference of 5 π corresponds to an odd multiple of π (where π is the mathematical symbol for pi), implying that the waves are out of phase. According to the principles of wave interference, out of phase waves interfere destructively, which results in a dark fringe at the point on the screen. In the context of single-slit diffraction, a phase difference that is an integer multiple of 2π would result in constructive interference and a bright fringe; whereas an odd multiple of π, such as the 5π given in the question, leads to destructive interference and thus a dark fringe.