Physics · Interference: Young's double-slit experiment and expression for fringe width, coherent sources and sustained interference of light

In Young's double slit experiment, the interference pattern obtained with white

In Young's double slit experiment, the interference pattern obtained with white light will be

  • A. the central fringe bright and alternate bright and dark fringes
  • B. the central fringe achromatic and coloured fringes for small path difference
  • C. the central fringe dark
  • D. the central fringe coloured

Step-by-step solution

In Young's double slit experiment with white light, all wavelengths constructively interfere at the central point (zero path difference), producing a white (achromatic) central fringe. For small path differences, the interference maxima for different wavelengths occur at slightly different positions, resulting in colored fringes. As path difference increases, the colors overlap and the pattern becomes indistinct.
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