The maximum intensity using coherent sources compared to the maximum intensity using random sources for sources of equal strength is that the maximum in the coherent case is
A)0.707 times the incoherent.
B)triple the incoherent.
C)the same as the incoherent.
D)half the incoherent.
E)double the incoherent.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In coherent sources, the maximum intensity is due to constructive interference, which results in the intensities adding up to four times the intensity of a single source. In incoherent sources, intensities simply add up, resulting in double the intensity of a single source. Therefore, the maximum intensity in the coherent case is double that of the incoherent case.

The Maximum Intensity Using Coherent Sources Compared to the Maximum