light travelling in air is incident on a soap bubble. If the path difference through the soap bubble is 2.5λ:
a) constructive interference will occur
b) destructive interference will occur
c) partial interference will occur
d) none of the above
To determine whether constructive, destructive, or partial interference will occur when light traveling in air is incident on a soap bubble with a path difference of 2.5λ, we need to understand the concept of interference.
Interference occurs when two or more waves combine and interact with each other. Constructive interference occurs when the peaks of two waves align, resulting in a larger amplitude, while destructive interference occurs when the peak of one wave aligns with the trough of another, resulting in a cancellation or reduction of amplitude.
To find the answer, you need to compare the path difference (2.5λ) to the wavelength (λ) of the light wave. Here's what each option means:
a) Constructive interference will occur:
If the path difference is an integral multiple of the wavelength (2.5λ = nλ, where n is an integer), then constructive interference occurs. This means the waves combine to create maximum constructive interference, resulting in a bright spot or reinforcement of the light wave.
b) Destructive interference will occur:
If the path difference is a half-integral multiple of the wavelength (2.5λ = (n + 1/2)λ, where n is an integer), then destructive interference occurs. This means the waves combine to create destructive interference, resulting in a dark spot or cancellation of the light wave.
c) Partial interference will occur:
If the path difference is between these two conditions, meaning it is neither an integral multiple nor a half-integral multiple of the wavelength, partial interference occurs. This means the waves will combine to some extent, resulting in a combination of bright and dark spots or some reinforcement and cancellation.
d) None of the above:
If the path difference does not fit any of the above conditions, then neither constructive, destructive, nor partial interference will occur.
Now that you understand the concept, you can determine the answer by comparing the given path difference (2.5λ) to the wavelength (λ) of the light wave in the soap bubble.