If two coherent sources of light are in phase, what will be the phase difference at a point where the path difference is λ/2?

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Q: If two coherent sources of light are in phase, what will be the phase difference at a point where the path difference is λ/2?

Solution: A path difference of λ/2 corresponds to a phase difference of π radians, leading to destructive interference.

Steps: 7

Step 1: Understand that coherent sources of light are sources that emit light waves with a constant phase difference.
Step 2: Know that the wavelength of light is represented by the symbol λ (lambda).
Step 3: Recognize that a path difference is the difference in distance traveled by two light waves to reach a point.
Step 4: Identify that a path difference of λ/2 means one wave has traveled half a wavelength more than the other.
Step 5: Learn that a full wavelength (λ) corresponds to a phase difference of 2π radians.
Step 6: Calculate the phase difference for a path difference of λ/2: Since λ corresponds to 2π, then λ/2 corresponds to π radians.
Step 7: Conclude that a phase difference of π radians leads to destructive interference, meaning the waves cancel each other out.