In a diffraction pattern, the central maximum is observed to be the brightest. W
Practice Questions
Q1
In a diffraction pattern, the central maximum is observed to be the brightest. What is the reason for this? (2022)
It has the least path difference
It has the maximum path difference
It has the maximum intensity
It has the minimum intensity
Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions
In a diffraction pattern, the central maximum is observed to be the brightest. What is the reason for this? (2022)
Step 1: Understand what a diffraction pattern is. It is a pattern created when light waves spread out after passing through a small opening or around an obstacle.
Step 2: Identify the central maximum. This is the brightest spot in the diffraction pattern, located in the center.
Step 3: Know that light waves can interfere with each other. This means they can combine in ways that make them stronger (constructive interference) or weaker (destructive interference).
Step 4: Realize that at the central maximum, all the light waves that reach this point are in phase. This means they are aligned perfectly with each other.
Step 5: Since the light waves are in phase at the central maximum, they combine to create a stronger light intensity, making it the brightest spot in the pattern.
