Two coherent light sources are characterized by
A) having the same amplitude.
B) having the same frequency.
C) having the same wavelength.
D) having the same velocity.
E) having the same frequency and maintaining a constant phase difference.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Coherence between two sources refers to the constancy of the phase difference between their waves. Choice E states that the sources have the same frequency and maintain a constant phase difference, which is the definition of coherence. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because two sources can be coherent even if they have different amplitudes, frequencies, or wavelengths. Choice D is incorrect because the velocity of light is constant in a given medium and is not a factor that characterizes coherence between two sources.

Two Coherent Light Sources Are Characterized by