Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Interference

Interference — practice question

Two point sources, A and B, emit coherent electromagnetic waves. The waves from A and B leave the sources in phase and have wavelength $\lambda$, as illustrated in Fig. 5.1. The straight lines on Fig. 5.1 show wavefronts. Every point on a given wavefront is in phase.
(a(i))[1]

On Fig. 5.1, mark the position of an interference maximum with a cross (x), and label it Y.

(a(ii))[1]

On Fig. 5.1, mark the position of an interference minimum with a cross (x), and label it Z.

(b(i))[3]

The waves in air have wavelength $2.9 \times 10^{-5}\,\text{m}$. An interference pattern is observed along a line parallel to AB and a perpendicular distance of $140\,\text{m}$ from AB. The separation between neighbouring interference maxima is $1.2\,\text{cm}$. Calculate the separation $a$ of the sources A and B.

(b(ii))[1]

State the main region of the electromagnetic spectrum to which the waves belong.

(a)

On Fig. 5.1, show the answer with a cross (\times):

(b)

The waves in air have wavelength $2.9 \times 10^{-5}\,\text{m}$. An interference pattern is observed along a line parallel to AB and at a perpendicular distance of $140\,\text{m}$ from AB. The separation between neighbouring interference maxima is $1.2\,\text{cm}$.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 6-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: cross marked Y at a wavefront intersection

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