Interference of light
Abstract
Scope and Method of Study: This paper presents a discussion of the phenomenon that we refer to as interference patterns, alternating regions of light and darkness, that occur when two beams of light interact through a medium. Also, a mathematical explanation, consistent with a wave model of light, and methods of obtaining the coherent sources necessary for the observation of interference are introduced. Certain optical phenomena can be interpreted only by thinking of light as having a corpuscular nature; other phenomena, interference being one, can be completely explained by use of the wave theory. A simple mechanical model is used to develop the mathematical relationships. The interferometer is discussed briefly. Findings and Conclusions: The wave theory does, indeed, offer the vehicle for a complete and satisfactory explanation of the interference in light. The interferometer, which uses the principle of interference, may be used to make precise measurements of the wavelength of light.
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- OSU Master's Report [734]