What is the phase difference in a Young's double slit experiment where the intensity is half that of the central maximum?
A)45°
B)180°
C)90°
D)23°
E)245°

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The intensity at a point in a Young's double slit experiment is given by I = I₀ cos²(φ/2), where φ is the phase difference. For the intensity to be half of the central maximum, I = I₀/2, which implies cos²(φ/2) = 1/2. Solving this gives φ/2 = 45°, so φ = 90°.

What Is the Phase Difference in a Young's Double Slit