Which one of the following mathematical expressions is correct for constructive interference for two beams of light in the double slit experiment?
A) Path Difference = (m - 1/2) λ, m = 0, ±1, ±2, . . .
B) Path Difference = λ/m, m = 0, ±1, ±2, . . .
C) Path Difference = mλ, m = 0, ±1, ±2, . . .
D) Path Difference = m , m = 0, ±1, ±2, . . .
E) Path Difference = m/λ, m = 0, ±1, ±2,. . . .

Question

Which one of the following mathematical expressions is correct for constructive interference for two beams of light in the double slit experiment?
A) Path Difference = (m - 1/2) λ, m = 0, ±1, ±2, . . . 
B) Path Difference = λ/m, m = 0, ±1, ±2, . . . 
C) Path Difference = mλ, m = 0, ±1, ±2, . . . 
D) Path Difference = m , m = 0, ±1, ±2, . . . 
E) Path Difference = m/λ, m = 0, ±1, ±2,. . . .

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Constructive interference occurs when the path difference between the two beams of light is an integer multiple of the wavelength (mλ). This is the condition given in option C. Option A corresponds to the condition for the central bright fringe, while option B and E correspond to the condition for destructive interference. Option D does not make mathematical sense.

Which One of the Following Mathematical Expressions Is Correct for Constructive