Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Interference

Interference — practice question

(a)[2]

State what is meant by the principle of superposition.

(b)[2]

Two waves with intensities $I$ and $4I$ are superposed. The waves share the same frequency. Determine, in terms of $I$, the greatest possible intensity of the wave formed.

(c)

Coherent light with wavelength $550\,\text{nm}$ is incident normally on a double slit with slit separation $0.35\,\text{mm}$. An alternating pattern of bright and dark fringes appears on a screen positioned $1.2\,\text{m}$ from the double slit, as shown in Fig. 4.1. The screen is parallel to the double slit.

(c(i))[3]

Determine the separation between the centres of neighbouring bright fringes on the screen.

(c(ii))[1]

The $550\,\text{nm}$ light is replaced by red light of a single frequency. State and explain how, if at all, the distance between the centres of adjacent bright fringes changes.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 8-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: The waves arrive together or overlap at the same point

  • Full mark scheme, point by point
  • Step-by-step worked solution
  • Write your answer & get it marked instantly by AI