Two beams of light with the same wavelength may interfere either constructively or destructively.If the amplitude and intensity of beam 1 is A and I and the second beam has an amplitude of 3 A,what is the maximum and minimum intensity possible by combining these beams?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The maximum intensity occurs during constructive interference, where the amplitudes add up: (A + 3A)^2 = 16A^2, which corresponds to 16I. The minimum intensity occurs during destructive interference, where the amplitudes subtract: (3A - A)^2 = 4A^2, which corresponds to 4I.

Two Beams of Light with the Same Wavelength May Interfere