25 Wave Optics

WAVEFRONT (iii) The forward envelope of the secondary wavelets at any

The locus of all particles of the medium vibrating in the same instant gives the new wavefront.
phase at a given instant is called a wavefront. Depending on A² A A¢
Primary A² A A¢ Secondary
the shape of source of light, wavefront can be of three types. wavefront
wavefront
(i) Spherical wavefront: A spherical wavefront is produced by a
point source of light. This is because the locus of all such
points which are equidistant from the point source will be a
sphere. Spherical wavefronts are further divided into two
headings: (i) converging spherical and (ii) diverging spherical
wavefront.
Secondary
wavelets
B² B B¢
B² B B¢
O O O (iv) In a homogeneous medium the wavefront is always
perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation.
With the help of Huygen’s wave theory, law of
Spherical Converging Diverging
reflection and refraction, total internal reflection and dispersion
wavefront spherical wavefront spherical wavefront can be explained easily. This theory also explain interference,
(ii) Cylindrical wavefront: When the O¢ diffraction and polarization successfully.
source of light is linear in shape Drawbacks of Huygens Wave Theory
such as a slit, the cylindrical (a) This theory cannot explain photo-electric effect, compton,
wavefront is produced. This is S and Raman effect.
because all the points equidistant (b) Hypothetical medium in vacuum is not true imagination.
from a line source lie on the surface (c) The theory predicted the presence of back wave, which
of a cylinder. O proved to be failure.
Cylindrical wavefront REFLECTION AND REFRACTION OF PLANE WAVES
USING HUYGENS PRINCIPLE
(iii) Plane wavefront: A small part Reflection on the Basis of Wave Theory
of a spherical or cylindrical According to Huygens principle, every point on AB is a source
wavefront due to a distant of secondary wavelets. Let the secondary wavelets from B strike
source will appear plane and reflecting surface M1M2 at A¢ in t seconds.
hence it is called plane wave- \ BA ' = c ´ t … (i)
front. The wavefront of parallel where c is the velocity of light in the medium.
rays is a plane wavefront.
Plane wavefront
HUYGENS WAVE THEORY 3
B¢ 1¢
(Geometrical method to find the secondary wavefront) B
(i) Each point source of light is a centre of disturbance from 2
N 2¢
which waves spread in all directions. D D¢
(ii) Each point on primary wavelets acts as a new source of 1 i r r 3¢
i
distrubance and produces secondary wavelets which travel A P A¢
in space with the speed of light. M1 M2
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662 PHYSICS

The secondary wavelets from A will travel the same distance c × sin i c1
t in the same time. Therefore, with A as centre and c × t as radius, \ = =µ [using (iv)]
sin r c2
draw an arc B¢, so that
AB¢ = c × t … (ii) sin i
Hence m= … (vi)
A¢B¢ is the true reflected wavefront. sin r
angle of incidence, i = ÐBAA ' which proves Snell’s law of refraction.
and angle of reflection, r = ÐB ' A ' A It is clear from fig. that the incident rays, normal to the interface
XY and refracted rays, all lie in the same plane (i.e., in the plane of
In Ds AA¢B and AA¢B¢,
the paper). This is the second law of refraction.
AA¢ is common, BA ' = AB ' = c ´ t , and ÐB = ÐB ' = 90° Hence laws of refraction are established on the basis of wave
\ Ds are congruent \ ÐBAA ' = ÐB ' A ' A, i.e., Ði = Ðr … (iii) theory.
Which is the first law of reflection. Keep in Memory
Further, the incident wavefront AB, the reflecting surface M1M2
and the reflected wavefront A¢B¢ are all perpendicular to the plane 1. In 1873, Maxwell showed that light is an electromegnetic
of the paper. Therefore, incident ray, normal to the mirror M1M2 wave i.e. it propagates as transverse non-mechnical wave
and reflected ray all lie in the plane of the paper. This is second at speed c in free space given by
law of reflection. 1
Refraction on the Basis of Wave Theory c= = 3 ´ 108 ms -1
XY is a plane surface that separates a denser medium of refractive m 0e 0
index µ from a rarer medium. If c1 is velocity of light in rarer 2. There are some phenomenon of light like photoelectric
medium and c2 is velocity of light in denser medium, then by effect, Compton effect, Raman effect etc. which can be
definition. explained only on the basis of particle nature of light.
c1 3. Light shows the dual nature i.e. particle as well as wave
µ= c … (iv) nature of light. But the wave nature and particle nature
2 both cannot be possible simultaneously.
4. Interference and diffraction are the two phenomena that can
3 be explained only on the basis of wave nature of light.

B INTERFERENCE OF LIGHT WAVES AND YOUNG'S

2 DOUBLE SLIT EXPERIMENT
Rarer-C1 The phenomenon of redistribution of light energy in a medium
D N on account of superposition of light waves from two coherent
1 i
sources is called interference of light waves.
i P A¢ Young performed the experiment by taking two coherent sources
X A r Y
of light. Two source of light waves are said to be coherent if the
D¢ r
initial phase difference between the waves emitted by the source
3¢ remains constant with time.
Denser-C2
B¢ (i) The rays of light from two coherent sources S1 and S2
2¢
1¢ superpose each other on the screen forming alternately
maxima and minima (constructive and destructive
AB is a plane wave front incident on XY at ÐBAA ' = Ði . 1, 2, 3 interference).
are the corresponding incident rays normal to AB.
According to Huygens principle, every point on AB is a source P
S1 y
of secondary wavelets. Let the secondary wavelets from B strike M1
XY at A¢ in t seconds. S d O
\ BA¢ = c1 × t … (v)
The secondary wavelets from A travel in the denser medium with S2 M2
a velocity c2 and would cover a distance (c2 × t) in t seconds.
D Screen
A¢B¢ is the true refracted wavefront. Let r be the angle of refraction.
As angle of refraction is equal to the angle which the refracted
plane wavefront A¢B¢ makes with the refracting surface AA¢, (ii) Let the equation of waves travelling from S1 & S2 are
therefore, ÐAA ' B ' = r . y1 = A1Sin wt ...(1)
Let ÐAA ' B ' = r , angle of refraction. y 2 = A 2Sin wt ...(2)
BA ' c1 ´ t where A1 & A2 are amplitudes of waves starting from S1
In DAA¢B, sin i = = & S2 respectively. These two waves arrive at P by traversing
AA ' AA '
different distances S2P & S1P. Hence they are superimposed
AB ' c2 ´ t with a phase difference (at point P) given by
In D AA¢B¢, sin r = =
AA ' AA '
 Wave Optics 663

(B) Position of fringe:

2p
d ( phase difference ) = ´ D ( path difference ) (i) If D = S2P – S1P = nl, then we obtain bright fringes at
l poin t P on the screen and it corresponds to
2p constructive interference. So from equation (4) the
= (S2 P - S1P). ....(3) position of n th bright fringe
l
yd
2 D = S 2 P - S1P = nl =
æ dö 2 D
where S2 P (from fig) = D + ç y + ÷
è 2ø æ nD ö
or y = ç ÷l ...(7)
2 è d ø th
1 ( y + d / 2) (Position of n bright fringe)
» D+ [\ D >> ( y + d)]
2 2D l
(ii) If D = S2 P - S1P = (2n + 1) , then we obtain dark
( y – d / 2) 2 2
Similarly, S1P » D +
4D fringe at point P on the screen and corresponds to
destructive interference. So from equation(4), the
yd position of, n th dark fringe is
so, S2 P - S1P = ....(4)
D
l yd
(A) Conditions for maximum & minimum intensity : D = S2 P - S1P = (2n + 1) =
2 D
(i) Conditions for maximum intensity or constructive
interference : If phase difference (2n + 1) Dl
d = 0, 2p, 4p – – – 2np or y = ...(8)
2d
or, path difference D = S2 P - S1P = 0, l, 2l - - - nl (Position of nth dark fringe)
then resultant intensity at point P due two waves (C) Spacing or fringe width :
emanating from S1 & S2 is Let yn and yn+1 are the distance of n th and (n+1)th bright
fringe from point O then
I = A2 = A12 + A22 + 2 A1 A2 cos d (\ I µ A 2 ) Dnl D( n + 1)l
yn = & y n +1 =
or I = ( A1 + A2 ) 2 d d
So spacing b between nth and (n+1)th bright fringe is
or I = I1 + I 2 + 2 I1I 2 ....(5)
Dl
It means that resultant intensity is greater than the b = y n +1 - y n = ...(9)
d
sum of individual intensity ( where A is the amplitude
of resultant wave at point P). Since it is independent of n, so fringe width or spacing
(ii) Conditions for minimum intensity or destructive between any two consecutive bright fringes is same.
interference : If phase difference, Similarly the fringe width between any two consecutive
dark fringe is
d = p, 3p, 5p - - - -(2n + 1)p
or, path difference Dl
b= ...(10)
d
l 3l l
D = S2 P - S1P = , - - - (2n + 1) (D) Conditions for sustained interference:
2 2 2 (i) The two sources should be coherent i.e they should
then resultant intensity at point P is have a constant phase difference between them.
I = A2 = A12 + A22 – 2 A1 A2 cos d (ii) The two sources should give light of same frequency
(or wavelength).
or I = ( A1 - A2 ) 2 (iii) If the interfering waves are polarized, then they must
be in same state of polarization.
or I = I1 + I 2 - 2 I1 I2 ...(6) (E) Conditions for good observation of fringe:
It means that resultant intensity I is less than the sum (i) The distance between two sources i.e. d should be
of individual intensities. Now as the position of point small.
P on the screen changes, then the path difference at (ii) The distance of screen D from the sources should be
point P due to these two waves also changes & quite large.
intensity alternately becomes maximum or minimum.
(iii) The two interfering wavefronts must intersect at a very
These bright fringes ( max. intensity) & dark fringes
small angle.
(min. intensity) make an interference pattern.
It must be clear that there is no loss of energy (F) Conditions for good contrast of fringe :
( at dark fringe) & no gain of energy ( at bright fringe), (i) Sources must be monochromatic i.e they emit waves
but, only there is a redistribution of energy. of single wavelength.
The shape of fringe obtained on the screen is (ii) The amplitude of two interfering waves should be
approximately linear. equal or nearly equal.
 EBD_7751
664 PHYSICS

(iii) Both sources must be narrow.

For neon l = 6238 Å , t c » 10-10 sec. and L = 0.03 m.
(iv) As Intensity I is directly proportional to the square of
amplitude, hence Intensity of resultant wave at P,
For cadmium l = 6238 Å , t c = 10-9 and L = 0.3 m
I = I1 + I2 + 2 I1 I 2 cos f; if I1 = I 2 = I 0 . , then
For Laser t c = 10-5 sec and L = 3 km.
I = 4I 0 cos 2 f ( 2) (iii) The spectral lines width Dl is related to coherence
length L and coherence time tc.
( )
2
(v) Imax = I1 + I2 .
l2 l2
Dl » or Dl »
If I1 = I2 = I0, then Imax = 4I0 ct c L
( )
2
Imin = I1 - I 2 , if I1 = I2 = I0, then Imin = 0 2. Spatial coherence : Two points in space are said to be
spatially coherence if the waves reaching there maintains a
2 constant phase difference. Points P and Q are at the same
I æ I1 + I2 ö
(vi) max = ç ÷ . distance from S, they will always be having the same phase.
Imin è I1 - I2 ø Points P and P¢ will be spatially coherent if the distance
between P and P¢ is much less than the coherence length i.e.
b l
(vii) Angular fringe-width q0 = = PP ¢ << ct c
D d
(viii) The width of all interference fringes are same. Since
fringe width b is proportional to l, hence fringes with
P¢
red light are wider than those for blue light.
P
(ix) If the interference experiment is performed in a medium
of refractive index m instead of air, the wavelength of
l Q
light will change from l to .
m
Dælö b Monochromatic
i.e. b´= ç ÷=
d èmø m source of light
(x) If a transparent sheet of refractive index m and
thickness t is introduced in one of the paths of Methods of Obtaining Coherent Sources
interfering waves, then due to its presence optical path Two coherent sources are produced from a single source of light
will become mt instead of t. Due to this a given fringe by two methods :
from present position shifts to a new position. So the (i) By division of wavefront and (ii) By division of amplitude.
lateral shift of the fringe,
(i) Division of wavefront : The wavefront emitted by a narrow
D b source is divided in two parts by reflection, refraction or
y0 = (m - 1)t = (m - 1)t
d l diffraction. The coherent sources so obtained are imaginary.
(xi) In Young’s double slit experiment (coherent sources Example : Fresnel’s biprism, Llyod’s mirror, Young’s double
in phase): Central fringe is a bright fringe. It is on the slit, etc.
prerpendicular bisector of coherent sources. Central (ii) Division of amplitude : In this arrangement light wave is
fringe position is at a place where two waves having partly reflected (50%) and partly transmitted (50%) to
equal phase superpose. produced two light rays. The amplitude of wave emitted by
(xii) Young’s experiment with the white light will give white an extended source of light is divided in two parts by partial
central fringe flanked on either side by coloured bands. reflection and partial refraction. The coherent sources
COHERENCE obtained are real and are obtained in Newton’s rings,
The phase relationship between two light waves can very from Michelson’s interferometer, etc.
time to time and from point to point in space. The property of Incoherence of Two Conventional Light Sources
definite phase relationship is called coherence.
1. Temporal coherence : A light wave (photon) is produced Let two conventional light sources L1 and L2 (like two sodium
when an excited atom goes to the ground state and emits lamps or two monochromatic bulbs) illuminate two pin holes S1
light. and S2. Then we will find that no interference pattern is seen on
(i) The duration of this transition is about 10–9 to 10–10 the screen.
sec. Thus the emitted wave remains sinusoidal for this The reason is as follows : In conventional light source, light
much time. This time is known as coherence time ( t c ). comes from a large number of independent atoms, each atom
(ii) Definite phase relationship is maintained for a length emitting light for about 10–9 seconds i.e., light emitted by an
atom is essentially a pulse lasting for only 10–9 seconds.
L = ct c called coherence length.
 Wave Optics 665

Interference in Thin Films

We are familiar with the colours produced by a thin film of oil on
the surface of water and also by the thin film of a soap bubble.
L1 S1 Hooke observed such colours in thin films of mica and similar
thin transparent plates. Young was able to explain the phenomenon
on the basis of interference between light reflected from the top
S2 and bottom surface of a thin film. It has been observed that
L2 interference in the case of thin films takes place due to
(i) reflected light and (ii) transmitted light.
Interference due to reflected light
Screen From the figure, the optical path difference between the reflected
Even if all the atoms were emitting light pulses under similar ray (AT) from the top surface and the reflected ray (CQ) from the
conditions, waves from different atoms would differ in their initial bottom surface can be calculated. Let it be x, then
phases. Consequently light coming out from the holes S1 and S2 T
S
will have a fixed phase relationship only for 10–9 sec. Hence any N Q
interference pattern formed on the screen would last only for i Air
i
10–9 sec. (a billionth of a second), and then the pattern will A C
change. The human eye can notice intensity changes which last t r m
M
at least for a tenth of a second and hence we will not be able to
B Air
see any interference pattern. Instead due to rapid changes in the r F
pattern, we will only observe a uniform intensity over the screen.
P
LIoyd’s Mirror x = m(AB + BC) - AN
The two sources are slit S ( parallel to mirror ) and its virtual image On simplification, we get
S'. x = 2mt cos r
l
Super-position 1. If 2mt cos r = (2n + 1) , where n = 0,1,2, ..............then
Screen 2
occurs in this region constructive interference takes place and the film appears
S
bright.
d O 2. If 2mt cos r = nl , where n = 0, 1, 2, 3,............ then destructive
Flat black interference takes place and the film appears dark.
S' Interference due to transmitted light
glass
D P
S r
Lloyd mirror arrangement
i
C Air
(i) If screen is moved so that, point O touches the edge of A
glass plate, the geometrical path difference for two wave t r m
rr M
trains is zero. The phase change of p radian on reflection at r D
i Air
denser medium causes a dark fringe to be formed. B
· The fring width remains unchanged on introduction N Q
R
of transparent film. The optical path difference between the reflected ray (DQ) and
· If the film is placed in front of upper slit S1, the fringe the transmitted ray (NR) is given by
pattern will shift upwards. On the other hand if the x = m(BC + CD) - BN
film is placed in front of lower slit S2, the fringe pattern
On simplification, we get
shifts downwards.
(ii) This interference pattern is frequently seen in a ripple tank x = 2mt cos r
when one uses a wave train to demonstrate the law of 1. If 2mt cos r = nl , where n = 0, 1, 2, 3, .............then
reflection. constructive interference takes place and the film appears
Dl bright.
(iii) In this case, fringe width b =
d l
2. If 2mt cos r = (2n + 1) , n = 0, 1, 2, ....... then destructive
Optical path : (Equivalent path in vacuum or air) In case of medium 2
of refractive index m and thickness t, the optical path = mt. interference takes place and the film appears dark.
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666 PHYSICS

Newton's Rings Therefore,

Newton observed the formation of interference rings when a
For bright rings, 2mt cos q = nl, n = 0,1, 2,....
plano-convex lens is placed on a plane glass plate. When viewed
with white light, the fringes are coloured while with monochromatic l
light, the fringes are bright and dark. These fringes are produced For dark rings, 2mt cos q = (2n - 1) , n = 0,1, 2,......
due to interference between the light reflected from the lower 2
surface of the lens and the upper surface of the glass plate. Proceeding further, we get Radius of bright ring,
Interference can also take place due to transmitted light.
(2n - 1)lR
r=
2
Air film

(i) The centre is bright and alternately bright and dark

Newton's rings by reflected light : rings are obtained.
Here, interference takes place due to reflected light. Therefore, (ii) The ring pattern due to reflected light is just opposite
for bright rings, to that of transmitted light.
l
2 mt cos q = (2n - 1) where n = 1, 2, 3, ...... Keep in Memory
2
And for dark rings, 2 mt cos q = nl , n = 1, 2, 3, ...... 1. If Dn and Dn + m be the diameters of n th and (n + m)th dark
rings then the wavelength of light used is given by

(D n + m ) 2 - (Dn )2
l=
4mR
L where, R is the radius of curvature of the lens.
2. If Dn = diameter of nth dark ring when air is present betwen
Air film
the glass plate and the lens
G Dn+m = diameter of (n+m)th dark ring when air is present
between the glass plate and the lens
Proceeding further, we get the radius of rings as follows:
D¢n = diameter of n th dark ring when a liquid is poured
(2n - 1)lR between the plate and the lens
For bright rings, r =
2 D¢n+m =diameter of (n+m)th dark ring when a liquid is
poured between the plate and the lens
For dark rings, r = nlR , where R = radius of curvature of
Then the refractive index of the liquid is given by
lens.
(D n + m )2 - (Dn )2
m= or,,
(i) The centre is dark and alternately dark and bright rings (D n¢ + m ) 2 - (D n¢ )2
are produced.
(ii) While counting the order of the dark rings 1, 2, 3, etc. 4mlR
the central ring is not counted. Therefore, m=
(D n¢ + m )2 - (D n¢ )2
for 1st dark ring, n = 1 and r1 = lR
Example 1.
for 2nd dark ring, n = 2 and r2 = 2lR In Young’s expt., two coherent sources are placed 0.90 mm
apart and fringes are observed one metre away. If it
Newton's rings by transmitted light produces second dark fringe at a distance of 1 mm from
Here, interference takes place due to transmitted light. central fringe, what would be the wavelength of
monochromatic light used?
Solution :
lD
For dark fringes, x = (2 n - 1)
L 2d

\ l=
2xd 2 ´ 10 -3 ´ 0.9 ´ 10 -3
=
(2 n - 1) D (2 ´ 2 - 1) ´1
G
or, l = 0.6 ´ 10 -6 m = 6 ´10 -5 cm.
 Wave Optics 667

Example 2. By comonendo and dividendo,

Two beam of light having intensities I and 4 I interfere to I1 3+1 I1 4
produce a fringe pattern on a screen. The phase difference = = =4
between the beams is p/2 at point A and p at point B. Then I2 3 - 1 i.e., I2 1
find the difference between the resultant intensities at A
(b) Now as for a wave I µ A 2 ,
and B.
2 2
Solution : I1 é A1 ù é A1 ù A
=ê ú , ê ú = 4, i.e., 1 = 2
Here, I1 = I; I 2 = 4 I; q1 = p / 2, q2 = p I2 ë A 2 û ë A 2 û A2
I A = I1 + I 2 + 2 I1 I 2 cos q1 Example 5.
In a Young’s double slit experiment the angular width of a
= I + 4 I + 2 I ´ 4 I cos p / 2 = 5 I fringe formed on a distant screen is 1°. The wavelength of
the light used is 6280 Å. What is the distance between the
I B = I1 + I 2 + 2 I1 I 2 cos q 2
two coherent sources ?
= I + 4 I + 2 I 4 I cos p = 5 I - 4 I = I ; Solution :
\ IA - IB = 5 I - I = 4 I l
The angular fringe width is given by a =
d
where l is wavelength and d is the distance between two
Example 3.
In a biprism experiment, 5th dark fringe is obtained at a l
coherent sources. Thus d =
point. If a thin transparent film is placed in the path of one a
of waves, then 7th bright fringe is obtained at the same p
Given, l = 6280 Å, a = 1° = radian
point. Determine the thickness of the film in terms of 180
wavelength l and refractive index m .
6280 ´ 10-10
Solution : Thus d = ´ 180 = 3.6 ´ 10-5 m = 0.036 mm
3.14
l D 9l D
For 5th dark fringe, x1 = (2 n - 1) = DIFFRACTION
2 d 2d
When a wave is obstructed by an obstacle, the rays bend round
D 7lD the corner. This phenomenon is known as diffraction.
For 7th bright fringe, x 2 = n l =
d d Fraunhoffer Diffraction by Single Slit
D lD é 9ù D In Fraunhoffer diffraction experiment, the source and the screen
but x 2 - x1 = (m - 1) t ; 7 - ú = (m - 1) t
d d êë 2û d are effectively at infinite distance from the diffracting element.
2.5 l In single slit diffraction, imagine aperature to be divided into two
\ Thickness, t = equal halves. Secondary sources in these two halves give first
(m - 1)
minima at b sin q = l
Example 4.
In Young’s experiment, the interference pattern is found to
have an intensity ratio between the bright and dark fringes P
q
as 9. What is the ratio of (a) intensities (b) amplitudes of
q
the two interfering waves ? b P0
q
Solution :

In case of interference, I = I1 + I2 + 2 ( )
I1I 2 cos f
D
(a) For I to be maximum and minimum cos f is 1 and –1
l
respectively, i.e., In general, b sin q = nl for minima and, b sin q = ( 2n + 1) for
2
I max = I1 + I 2 + 2 I1I 2 = ( I1 + I 2 ) 2 and maxima.
(i) The points of the maximum intensity lie nearly midway
I min = I1 + I 2 - 2 I1I 2 = ( I1 ~ I 2 ) 2 between the successive minima. The amplitude E0' of the
According to given problem, electric field at a general point P is

( ) =9,
2
I1 + I2 sin b p b sin q
Imax E0 ' = E0 where b = and
= b l
( I2 )
I min 2 1
I1 - E0 = amplitude at the point P0 i.e. at q = 0
Imax I1 + I2 3 sin 2 b
i.e., I = = The intensity at a general point P is given as I = I 0
min I1 - I2 1 b2
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668 PHYSICS

Difference between Interference and Diffraction of light

(ii) The graph for the variation of intensity as a function of
Interference Diffraction
sinq is as follows :
1. Interference is due to the 1. Diffraction is due to the
superposition of two superposition of two
I
wavefronts originating secondary wavelets
I0 from two coherent originating from the
sources. different points of the
same wavefront.
2. In Interference pattern, 2. In diffraction pattern, the
I0 / 22 I0 / 62.5 all the maxima i.e. bright bright fringes are of
fringes are of the same varying intensity.
-3l -2l -l O l 2l 3l sinq intensity.
b b b b b b 3. In Interference pattern, the 3. In diffraction pattern, the
dark fringes are usually dark fringes are not
almost perfectly dark. perfectly dark.
2lD ö
(iii) The width of the central maxima is æç ÷ and angular
4. In Interference pattern, the 4. In diffraction pattern, the
è b ø width of fringes (bright widths of fringes are not
and dark) is equal. equal.
æ 2l ö 5. In Interference, bands are 5. In diffraction, bands are
width of central maxima is ç ÷ .
è b ø large in number. a few in number.
Fraunh offer Diffraction by a Circular Aperture 6. In Interference, bands are 6. In diffraction, bands are
equally spaced. unequally spaced.
(i) The 1st dark ring is formed by the light diffracted from the
circular aperture at an angle q with the axis where Example 6.
In a single slit diffraction experiment, the angular position
1.22l of the first (secondary) maximum is found to be 5.2°, when
sin q » where l = wavelength of light used,
b the slit width is 0.01 mm. If sin 52° = 0.0906, then find the
b = diameter of circular aperture wavelength of light used.
Solution :
For single-slit diffraction, the angular position of the first
maximum is determined from the relation
Circular aperture
3l
a sin q1¢ =
2
b q
It is given that a = 0.01 mm
= 1 × 10–5, q1¢ = 5.2°, sin q1¢ = 0.0906 . Therefore,
D 2 2
Screen l= a sin q1¢ = ´ 10 -5 ´ 0.0906 = 6040 Å
3 3
Example 7.
(ii) If the screen is at a distance D (D >> b) from the circular In Fraunhaufer diffraction from a single slit of width 0.3
aperture, the radius of the 1st dark ring is, mm the diffraction pattern is formed in the focal plane of a
lens of focal length 1m. If the distance of third minimum
1.22lD from the central maximum is 5mm, then find the wavelength
R»
b of light used.
(iii) If the light transmitted by the hole is converged by a Solution :
converging lens at the screen placed at the focal plane of The distance of n th minimum from the central maximum is
nlf
given by X n =
the lens, the radius of the 1st dark ring is R = 1.22lf a
b
where it is given that
This radius is also called the radius of diffraction disc. a = 0.3 × 10–3 m, n = 3, f = 1m, Xn = 5 × 10–3 m
For plane transmission diffraction grating Therefore,
(a + b) sin qn = nl for maxima, where a = width of transparent
aX n 0.3 ´ 10-3 ´ 5 ´ 10 -3
portion, b = width of opaque portion. l= = = 5 ´ 10-7 m = 500 nm
nf 3 ´1
 Wave Optics 669

POLARISATION I = I0 cos 2 q where I0 is the intensity when the incident electric

An ordinary source such as bulb consists of a large number of vector is parallel to the transmission axis.
waves emitted by atoms or molecules in all directions · Polarization can also be achieved by scattering of light
symmetrically. Such light is called unpolarized light (see fig - a) r
· (a) Plane polarized : oscillating E field is in a single plane.
Y Source r
(b) Circularly polarized : tip of oscillating E field describes
a circle.
Direction of r
X wave motion (c) Elliptically polarized : tip of oscillating E field
describes an ellipse.
Z Example 8 :
Fig (a) Unpolarised light The intensity of the polarised light becomes 1/20th of its
initial intensity after passing through the analyser. What
is the angle between the axis of the analyser and the initial
amplitude of the light beam ?
Solution :

1
Here I = I0 = 0.05 I 0
Fig (b) Polarised light 20
If we confine the direction of wave vibration of electric vector in
Using I = I0 cos2 q , we get 0.05 I0 = I0 cos 2 q
one direction perpendicular to direction of wave propagation,
then such type of light is called plane polarised or linearly
polarised (with the help of polaroids or Nicol prism). The Þ cos 2 q = 0.05 or cos q = 0.05 = 0.2236
phenomenon by which, we restrict the vibrations of wave in a
\ q = cos-1 (0.2236) = 76°9 ¢
particular direction (see fig-b) ^ to direction of wave
propagation is called polarization. Example 9 :
The plane of vibration is that which contains the vibrations of A beam of polarised light makes an angle of 60° with the
r
electric vector E and plane of polarisation is perpendicular to axis of the polaroid sheet. How much is the intensity of
the plane of vibration light transmitted through the sheet ?
· Tourmaline and calcite polarizes an e.m. wave passing Solution :
through it. Here q = 60°,
Polarization by Reflection (Brewster’s Law)
Using I = I0 cos2 q , we get
During reflection of a wave, we obtain a particular angle called
angle of polarisation, for which the reflected light is completely 1 æ 1ö
plane polarised. I = I0 (cos 60°) 2 = I0 çQ cos 60° = ÷
4 è 2ø

Reflected light 1
is polarised. \ Intensity of transmitted light = ´ 100 = 25%
4
ip Thus, the intensity of the transmitted light is 25% of the
ip+rp=90º
Rarer intensity of incident light.
90º
Denser Example 10:
rp
A ray of light strikes a glass plate at an angle of 60° with
the glass surface. If the reflected and refracted rays are at
right angles to each other, find the refractive index of the
glass.
Solution.
m = tan (ip) When the reflected and refracted rays are at right angle to
where, ip = angle of incidence, such that the reflected and refracted each other, the angle of incident is known as angle of
waves are perpendicular to each other. polarisation (ip).
Law of Malus : If the electric vector is at angle q with the Here, q = 60°, Using m = tan ip, we get
transmission axis, light is partially transmitted. The intensity of
transmitted light is m = tan 60° = 3 = 1.732
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670 PHYSICS

Example 11 : Example 12 :
A beam of light AO is incident on a glass slab (m = 1.54) in
The time period of rotation of the sun is 25 days and its
a direction as shown in fig. The reflected ray OB is passed
through nicol prism. On viewing through a nicol prism, radius is 7 × 108 m. What will be the Doppler shift for the
we find on rotating the prism that light of wavelength 6000 Å emitted from the surface of the
sun?
Solution :
A N B v ælö æ 2p ö æ l ö
Doppler’s shift d l = ´ l = R wç ÷ = R ç ÷ç ÷
57º c c
è ø è T øècø
33º 33º 7 ´ 108 ´ 2 ´ 22 6000
O = ´ Å = 0.04 Å
25 ´ 24 ´ 60 ´ 60 ´ 7 3 ´ 108
Example 13 :
How far in advance can one detect two headlights of a car
(a) the intensity is reduced down to zero and remains if they are separated by a distance of 1.57 m ?
zero Solution :
(b) the intensity reduces down somewhat and rises again The human eye can resolve two objects when the angle
(c) there is no change in intensity between them is 1 minute of arc. Thus, we have
(d) the intensity gradually reduces to zero and then again x
D=
increases q
Solution : (d) 1 p
For complete polarisation of reflected light Here x = 1.57 m, q = 1¢ = ´ rad ,
60 180
m = tan f (f = Brewster’s angle)
\ f = tan–1 m = tan–1 (1.54) = 57º 1.57 10800 ´ 1.57
Thus D = = = 5400 m = 5.4 km
1 p 3.14
From fig, angle of incidence = 90° – 33º = 57º ´
Hence the reflected light is completely polarised. When the 60 180
plane polarised light is viewed through a rotating nicol prism, Example 14 :
the intensity gradually reduces to zero and then again The numerical aperture of a microscope is 0.12, and the
increases. wavelength of light used is 600 nm. Then find its limit of
RESOLVING POWER OF AN OPTICAL INSTRUMENT resolution.
The resolving power of an optical instrument, is its ability to Solution :
distinguish between two closely spaced objects. The limit of resolution of a microscope is given by
Diffraction occurs when light passes through the circular, or
nearly circular, openings that admit light into cameras, telescopes, 0.61 l
x=
microscopes, and human eyes. The resulting diffraction pattern m sin q
places a natural limit on the resolving power of these instruments.
For example, for normal vision, the limit of resolution of normal It is given that l = 6 ´ 10 -7 m , and the numerical aperture
human eye is ~0.1 mm from 25 cm. (i.e., distances less than 0.1 mm m sin q = 0.12 .
cannot be resolved). For optical microscope the limit of resolution
~ 10–5 cm and for electron microscope ~5 Å or less. 0.61 ´ 6 ´ 10-7
Therefore, x = = 3.05 ´ 10-6 m » 3 µm
0.61l 0.12
The limit of resolution of a microscope x = where a is the
a Example 15 :
aperture of the microscope. A person wants to resolve two thin poles standing near
DOPPLER’S EFFECT FOR LIGHT WAVES each other at a distance of 1 km. What should be the
(a) When the source moves towards the stationary observer minimum separation between them?
or the observer moves towards the source, the apparent Solution :
frequency. Angular limit of resolution of eye q = 1 minute of arc
= 1/60 degree.
æ vö
n´= n ç1 + ÷ ( Blue shift ) Therefore, the minimum separation should be such that
è cø x = Dq
(b) When the source moves away from the stationary observer 1 p
with D = 1 km. = 103 m and q = ´ radian
æ vö 60 180
or vice-versa, n´= n ç1 - ÷ (Red shift)
è cø
10 3 ´ 3.14 31.4
where n´ = apparent frequency, n = active frequency Thus x = = = 0.29 m
60 ´ 180 108
v = velocity of source, c = velocity of light
or x » 30 cm.
But in both cases, the relative velocity v is small.
 CONCEPT MAP

Huygens’ principle Constructive interference Destructive interference

Wave Optics

Cylindrical wavefront
Linear light source Each point on the Phase diff. d= 2n p Phase diff. d= (2n – 1) p
Effective distance -finite primary wavefront x =2n (/2)
Path diff. D l
1 is the source of a Path diff. D
x = (2n – 1)/2l
Intensity I µ Resultant amplitude A = a1 + a 2
r secondary wavelets Resultant amplitude A = a1 – a 2
Resultant intensity I = 2
1 Resultant intensity I = ( I1 – I2 )
Amplitude A µ ( I1 + I 2 )2
r

Plane wavefront Doppler effect

Light source at large in light Interference
Wavefront of light Redistribution
distance: Effective Forms of Dv vradial
Locus of all particles = of energy due to super
distance infinite wavefront vibrating in same phase v c position of waves
Intensity and
amplitude independent
of distance
Spherical wavefront Superposition of waves. Coherent sources of light
Point light source WAVE OPTICS Sources of light, emitting
Describes the connection When two similar waves
Effective distance-finite propagate simultaneously light of same wavelength
1 between waves and same frequency having
Intensity I µ rays of light then resultant
r2 displacement y = y1+ y 2 a zero or constant phase
Brewster’s law 1 difference.
Amplitude A µ
µ = tan qp r
qp = angle of polarisation Diffraction
Bending of light waves Young’s double slit
around the corners of an Experiment YDSE
obstacle
Polarisation
Restricting the vibration of
light in a particular direction Linear width of
perpendicular to the direction central maximum
of propagation of wave 2Dl l Distance between Fringe width ()b
= 2+ Distance between central fringe and
a a central fringe and Distance between
th
Law of Malus th n dark fringe centres of two
n bright fringe consecutive bright
I = Icos 2q (2n - 1)lD
0 nlD Xn =
Xn = or dark fringes
I = intensity of For secondary maximum For secondary minimum 2d
d D
transmitted light (2n + 1)l path difference = nl D = distance between b= l
Path diff. = d
from analyser 2 nDl source and screen
Linear distance Linear distance = d = distance between
(2n + 1)Dl a
two slits
671

=
2a
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672 PHYSICS

1. Which one of the following phenomena is not explained by 13. The phenomenon of interference is shown by
Huygens construction of wavefront? (a) longitudinal mechanical waves only
(a) Refraction (b) Reflection (b) transverse mechanical waves only
(c) Diffraction (d) Origin of spectra (c) non-mechanical transverse waves only
2. Which of the following phenomena is not common to sound (d) All of the above
and light waves ? 14. The transverse nature of light is shown by
(a) Interference (b) Diffraction (a) interference of light (b) refraction of light
(c) Coherence (d) Polarisation (c) polarization of light (d) dispersion of light
3. Interference is possible in 15. If the intensities of the two interfering beams in Young’s
(a) light waves only double-slit experiment are I1 and I2, then the contrast
(b) sound waves only between the maximum and minimum intensities is good
(c) both light and sound waves when
(d) neither light nor sound waves (a) | I1 and I2 | is large (b) | I1 and I2 | is small
4. A single slit diffraction pattern is obtained using a beam of (c) either I1 or I2 is zero (d) I1 = I2
red light. If the red light is replaced by the blue light, then 16. The idea of the quantum nature of light has emerged in an
attempt to explain
the diffraction pattern
(a) interference
(a) remains unchanged (b) becomes narrower
(b) diffraction
(c) becomes broader (d) will disappear
(b) polarization
5. In Young's double slit experiment, if the slit widths are in the (d) radiation spectrum of a black body
ratio 1 : 2, the ratio of the intensities at minima and maxima 17.. The contrast in the fringes in an interference pattern
will be depends on
(a) 1 : 2 (b) 1 : 3 (c) 1 : 4 (d) 1 : 9 (a) fringe width
6. If a wave can be polarized, it must be (b) wavelength
(a) a transverse wave (b) a longitudinal wave (c) intensity ratio of the sources
(c) a sound wave (d) a stationary wave (d) distance between the slits
7. To demonstrate the phenomenon of interference, we require 18. Polarisation of light establishes
two sources which emit radiation of (a) corpuscular theory of light
(a) nearly the same frequency (b) quantum nature of light
(b) the same frequency (c) transverse nature of light
(c) different wavelengths (d) all of the three
(d) the same frequency and having a definite phase 19. Huygens concept of wavelets is useful in
relationship (a) explaining polarisation
8. Angular width (B) of central maxima of a diffraction pattern (b) determining focal length of the lenses
of a single slit does not depend upon (c) determining chromatic aberration
(a) distance between slit and source (d) geometrical reconstruction of a wavefront
(b) wavelength of the light used 20. When a compact disc is illuminated by small source of white
(c) width of slit light, coloured bands are observed. This is due to
(a) dispersion (b) diffraction
(d) frequency of light used
(c) interference (d) reflection
9. The phenomenon by which stars recedes from each other
21. A nicol prism is based on the action of
is explained by (a) refraction (b) double refraction
(a) black hole theory (b) neutron star theory (c) dichroism (d) both (b) and (c)
(c) white dwarf (d) red shift 22. The deflection of light in a gravitational field was predicted
10. Which of the following does not support the wave nature first by
of light? (a) Einstein (b) Newton
(a) Interference (b) Diffraction (c) Max Planck (d) Maxwell
(c) Polarisation (d) Photoelectric effect. 23. When light passing through rotating nicol is observed,
11. The colours seen in the reflected white light from a thin oil no change in intensity is seen. What inference can be
film are due to drawn ?
(a) diffraction (b) interference (a) The incident light is unpolarized.
(c) polarisation (d) dispersion (b) The incident light is circularly polarized.
12. Which of the following cannot be polarised ? (c) The incident light is unpolarized or circularly
(a) Radio waves (b) b rays polarized.
(d) The incident light is unpolarized or circularly polarized
(c) Infrared rays (d) g rays or combination of both.
 Wave Optics 673

24. In refraction, light waves are bent on passing from one 25. Interference was observed in an interference chamber when
medium to the second medium, because, in the second air was present. Now, the chamber is evacuated and if the
medium same light is used, a careful observation will show
(a) the frequency is different (a) no interference
(b) the coefficient of elasticity is different (b) interference with bright bands
(c) the speed is different (c) interference with dark bands
(d) the amplitude is smaller (d) interference in which breadth of the fringe will be
slightly increased

1. The width of a slit is 0.012 mm. Monochromatic light is 7. In Young’s double slit expt. the distance between two
incident on it. The angular position of first bright line is sources is 0.1 mm. The distance of the screen from the
5.2º. The wavelength of incident light is source is 20 cm. Wavelength of light used is 5460 Å. The
[sin 5.2º = 0.0906]. angular position of the first dark fringe is
(a) 6040 Å (b) 4026 Å (a) 0.08º (b) 0.16º
(c) 5890 Å (d) 7248 Å (c) 0.20º (d) 0.32º
2. A ray of light is incident on the surface of a glass plate at an 8. The separation between successive fringes in a double slit
angle of incidence equal to Brewster’s angel f. If m represents arrangement is x. If the whole arrangement is dipped under
the refractive index of glass with respect to air, then the angle water what will be the new fringe separation? [The
between the reflected and the refracted rays is wavelenght of light being used is 5000 Å]
(a) 90° + f (b) sin–1(m cos f) (a) 1.5 x (b) x
(c) 0.75 x (d) 2 x
æ sin f ö
(c) 90º (d) 90 º - sin -1 çç ÷÷ 9. Light of wavelength 6328 Å is incident normally on a slit
è m ø having a width of 0.2 mm. The angular width of the central
3. Light of wavelength 6.5 × 10–7 m is made incident on two maximum measured from minimum to minimum of diffraction
slits 1 mm apart. The distance between third dark fringe and pattern on a screen 9.0 metres away will be about
fifth bright fringe on a screen distant 1 m from the slits will (a) 0.36 degree (b) 0.18 degree
be (c) 0.72 degree (d) 0.09 degree
(a) 0.325 mm (b) 0.65 mm 10. A plane wave of wavelength 6250 Å is incident normally on
(c) 1.625 mm (d) 3.25 mm a slit of width 2 × 10–2 cm. The width of the principal maximum
4. The max. intensity produced by two coherent sources of on a screen distant 50 cm will be
intensity I1 and I2 will be (a) 312.5 × 10–3 cm (b) 312.5 × 10–3 m
(c) 312.5 × 10 m –3 (d) 312 m
(a) I1 + I 2 (b) I12 + I 22 11. A ray of light strikes a glass plate at an angle of 60º. If the
reflected and refracted rays are perpendicular to each other,
(c) I1 + I 2 + 2 I1 I 2 (d) zero
the index of refraction of glass is
5. The path difference between two wavefronts emitted by
coherent sources of wavelength 5460Å is 2.1 micron. The 1 3 3
(a) (b) (c) (d) 1.732
phase difference between the wavefronts at that point is 2 2 2
(a) 7.692 (b) 7.692 p 12. The wavelength of Ha line in hydrogen spectrum was found
7.692 7.692 to be 6563 Å in the laboratory. If the wavelength of same
(c) (d) line in the spectrum of a milky way is observed to be 6568Å,
p 3p
d
then recession velocity of milky way will be
6. In Young’s expt., the distance between two slits is and (a) 105 m/s (b) 1.05 × 106 m/s
3 6
(c) 10.5 × 10 m/s (d) 0.105 × 106 m/s
the distance between the screen and the slits is 3 D. The 13. A star is receding away from earth with a velocity of
1 105 m/s. If the wavelength of its spectral line is 5700 Å, then
number of fringes in m on the screen, formed by
3 Doppler shift will be
monochromatic light of wavelength 3l, will be (a) 200 Å (b) 1.9 Å
(c) 20 Å (d) 0.2 Å
d d
(a) (b) 14. A slit of width a is illuminated by red light of wavelength
9Dl 27 D l 6500 Å. If the first minimum falls at q = 30°, the value of a is
(a) 6.5 × 10–4 mm (b) 1.3 micron
d d
(c) (d) (c) 3250 Å (d) 2.6 × 10–4 cm
81 D l Dl
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15. Two beams of light of intensity I1 and I2 interfere to give 24. Two sources of light of wavelengths 2500 Å and 3500 Å are
an interference pattern. If the ratio of maximum intensity to used in Young’s double slit expt. simultaneously. Which
that of minimum intensity is 25/9, then I1/I2 is orders of fringes of two wavelength patterns coincide?
(a) 5/3 (b) 4 (a) 3rd order of 1st source and 5th of the 2nd
(c) 81/625 (d) 16 (b) 7th order of 1st and 5th order of 2nd
(c) 5th order of 1st and 3rd order of 2nd
16. The condition for obtaining secondary maxima in the
(d) 5th order of 1st and 7th order of 2nd
diffraction pattern due to single slit is
25. A radar sends radiowaves of frequency v towards an
l aeroplane moving with velocity va. A change Dn is observed
(a) a sin q = nl (b) a sin q = ( 2n - 1) in the frequency of reflected waves which is higher than
2
original frequency. The velocity of aeroplane is (va << c)
nl c Dn Dn
(c) a sin q = ( 2n - 1) l (d) a sin q = c Dn 2 c Dn
2 (a) (b) (c) (d)
n Dn 2n 2cn
17. Light from two coherent sources of the same amplitude A
26. In Young’s double slit experiment, we get 10 fringes in the
and wavelength l illuminates the screen. The intensity of
field of view of monochromatic light of wavelength 4000Å.
the central maximum is I0. If the sources were incoherent, If we use monochromatic light of wavelength 5000Å, then
the intensity at the same point will be the number of fringes obtained in the same field of view is
(a) 4I0 (b) 1I0 (c) I0 (d) I0/2 (a) 8 (b) 10 (c) 40 (d) 50
18. In Young's double slit experiment with sodium vapour lamp 27. With a monochromatic light, the fringe-width obtained in a
of wavelength 589 nm and the slits 0.589 mm apart, the half Young’s double slit experiment is 0.133 cm. The whole set-
angular width of the central maximum is up is immersed in water of refractive index 1.33, then the
(a) sin–1 (0.01) (b) sin –1 (0.0001) new fringe-width is
(c) sin –1 (0.001) (d) sin–1 (0.1) (a) 0.133 cm (b) 0.1 cm
19. In Young's double slit experiment with sodium vapour lamp 1.33
(c) 1.33 × 1.33 cm (d) cm
of wavelength 589 nm and the slits 0.589 mm apart, the half 2
angular width of the central maximum is 28. A slit of width a is illuminated by white light. The first
(a) sin –1 0.01 (b) sin–10.0001 minimum for red light (l = 6500 Å) will fall at q = 30º when a
–1
(c) sin 0.001 (d) sin–1 0.1 will be
20. When the light is incident at the polarizing angle on the (a) 3250 Å (b) 6.5 × 10–4 cm
transparent medium, then the completely polarized light is (c) 1.3 micron (d) 2.6 × 10–4 cm
(a) refracted light 29. The Fraunhoffer ‘diffraction’ pattern of a single slit is formed
(b) reflected light in the focal plane of a lens of focal length 1 m. The width of
(c) refracted and reflected light slit is 0.3 mm. If third minimum is formed at a distance of 5
mm from central maximum, then wavelength of light will be
(d) neither reflected nor refracted light
(a) 5000 Å (b) 2500 Å
21. In the phenomena of diffraction of light, when blue light is
(c) 7500 Å (d) 8500 Å
used in the experiment in spite of red light, then 30. Two points separated by a distance of 0.1 mm can just be
(a) fringes will become narrower inspected in a microscope, when light of wavelength 600Å
(b) fringes will become broader is used. If the light of wavelength 4800 Å is used, the limit
(c) no change in fringe width of resolution will become
(d) None of these (a) 0.80mm (b) 0.12 mm (c) 0.10 mm (d) 0.08 mm
22. The wavefronts of a light wave travelling in vacuum are 31. Unpolarised light of intensity 32 W m–2 passes through
given by x + y + z = c. The angle made by the direction of three polarizers such that the transmission axis of the last
propagation of light with the X-axis is polarizer is crossed with that of the first. The intensity of
(a) 0º (b) 45º final emerging light is 3 W m–2. The intensity of light
transmitted by first polarizer will be
(c) 90º (d) cos –1 (1/ 3) (a) 32 W m–2 (b) 16 W m–2
(c) 8 W m –2 (d) 4 W m–2
23. In Fresnel’s biprism expt., a mica sheet of refractive index
1.5 and thickness 6 × 10–6 m is placed in the path of one of 32. A parallel beam of monochromatic unpolarised light is
incident on a transparent dielectric plate of refractive index
interfering beams as a result of which the central fringe
gets shifted through 5 fringe widths. The wavelength of 1
. The reflected beam is completely polarised. Then the
light used is 3
(a) 6000 Å (b) 8000 Å angle of incidence is
(c) 4000 Å (d) 2000 Å (a) 30º (b) 60º
(c) 45º (d) 75º
 Wave Optics 675

33. Two nicols are oriented with their principal planes making (a) 4400 Å (b) 4100 Å
an angle of 60º. Then the percentage of incident unpolarised (c) 4642.8 Å (d) 9100 Å
light which passes through the system is 43. When the angle of incidence is 60° on the surface of a
(a) 100 (b) 50 (c) 12.5 (d) 37.5 glass slab, it is found that the reflected ray is completely
34. A beam of unpolarised light passes through a tourmaline polarised. The velocity of light in glass is
crystal A and then through another such crystal B oriented
so that the principal plane is parallel to A. The intensity of
(a) 2 ´ 108 ms -1 (b) 3 ´ 108 ms -1
emergent light is I0. Now B is rotated by 45º about the ray. (c) 2 ´ 108 ms -1 (d) 3 ´ 108 ms -1
The emergent light will have intensity 44. A lens having focal length f and aperture of diameter d
(a) I 0 / 2 (b) I 0 / 2 (c) I 0 2 (d) 2I 0 d
forms an image of intensity I. Aperture of diameter in
35. A rocket is receding away from earth with velocity 0.2 c. 2
The rocket emits signal of frequency 4 × 107 Hz. The central region of lens is covered by a black paper. Focal
apparent frequency observed by the observer on earth will length of lens and intensity of image now will be
be respectively
(a) 4 × 106 Hz (b) 3.2 × 107 Hz I 3f I
6
(c) 3 × 10 Hz (d) 5 × 107 Hz (a) f and (b) and
4 4 2
36. The heavenly body is receding from earth, such that the
fractional change in l is 1, then its velocity is 3I f I
(c) f and (d) and
4 2 2
3c c 2c
(a) c (b) (c) (d) 45. In Young’s double slit experiment, the slits are 2 mm apart and
5 5 5 are illuminated by photons of two wavelengths l1 = 12000Å
37. Fluorescent tubes give more light than a filament bulb of and l2 = 10000Å. At what minimum distance from the
same power because common central bright fringe on the screen 2 m from the slit
(a) the tube contains gas at low temperature will a bright fringe from one interference pattern coincide
(b) ultraviolet light is converted into visible light by with a bright fringe from the other ?
fluorescence (a) 6 mm (b) 4 mm (c) 3 mm (d) 8mm
(c) light is diffused through the walls of the tube
46. A parallel beam of fast moving electrons is incident normally
(d) it produces more heat than bulb
on a narrow slit. A fluorescent screen is placed at a large
38. In young’s double-slit experiment, the intensity of light at a
distance from the slit. If the speed of the electrons is
point on the screen where the path difference is l is I, l increased, which of the following statements is correct ?
being the wavelength of light used. The intensity at a point (a) The angular width of the central maximum of the
l diffraction pattern will increase.
where the path difference is will be
4 (b) The angular width of the central maximum will decrease.
I I
(a) (b) (c) I (d) zero (c) The angular width of the central maximum will be
4 2 unaffected.
39. Aperture of the human eye is 2 mm. Assuming the mean (d) Diffraction pattern is not observed on the screen in
wavelength of light to be 5000 Å, the angular resolution case of electrons.
limit of the eye is nearly DIRECTIONS for Qs. (47 to 50) : Each question contains
(a) 2 minute (b) 1 minute STATEMENT-1 and STATEMENT-2. Choose the correct answer
(c) 0.5 minute (d) 1.5 minute (ONLY ONE option is correct ) from the following-
40. If the polarizing angle of a piece of glass for green light is (a) Statement -1 is false, Statement-2 is true
54.74°, then the angle of minimum deviation for an
(b) Statement -1 is true, Statement-2 is true; Statement -2 is a
equilateral prism made of same glass is
correct explanation for Statement-1
[Given, tan 54.74° = 1.414]
(c) Statement -1 is true, Statement-2 is true; Statement -2 is not
(a) 45° (b) 54.74°
a correct explanation for Statement-1
(c) 60° (d) 30°
(d) Statement -1 is true, Statement-2 is false
41. In Young's double slit experiment, the fringes are displaced
by a distance x when a glass plate of refractive index 1.5 is 47. Statement 1 : In YDSE, if a thin film is introduced in front of
introduced in the path of one of the beams. When this the upper slit, then the fringe pattern shifts in the downward
plate is replaced by another plate of the same thickness, direction.
the shift of fringes is (3/2) x. The refractive index of the Statement 2 : In YDSE if the slit widths are unequal, the
second plate is minima will be completely dark.
(a) 1.75 (b) 1.50 Imax
(c) 1.25 (d) 1.00 48. Statement 1 : In YDSE, if I1 = 9I0 and I2 = 4I0 then = 25.
I min
42. A single slit Fraunhoffer diffraction pattern is formed with
white light. For what wavelength of light the third Statement 2 : In YDSE Imax = ( I1 + I 2 ) 2 and
secondary maximum in the diffraction pattern coincides
with the second secondary maximum in the pattern for red I min = ( I1 - I 2 ) 2 .
light of wavelength 6500 Å?
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49. Statement 1 : In Young’s double slit experiment if
wavelength of incident monochromatic light is just doubled,
number of bright fringe on the screen will increase.
Statement 2: Maximum number of bright lunge on the screen
is inversely proportional to the wavelength of light used
50. Statement 1 : In YDSE number of bright fringe or dark fringe
can not be unlimited
Statement 2 : In YDSE path difference between the
superposing waves can not be more than the distance
between the slits.

Exemplar Questions 4pd æ

12
p
1 2 ö
(c) ç1 - sin q ÷ +
1. Consider a light beam incident from air to a glass slab at l è n2 ø 2
Brewster’s angle as shown in figure. 12
A polaroid is placed in the path of the emergent ray at point 4pd æ 1 2 ö
(d) ç1 - sin q ÷ + 2p
P and rotated about an axis passing through the centre and l è n2 ø
perpendicular to the plane of the polaroid. 4. In a Young’s double-slit experiment, the source is white
light. One of the holes is covered by a red filter and another
by a blue filter. In this case,
(a) there shall be alternate interference patterns of red and
blue
(b) there shall be an interference pattern for red distinct
from that for blue
(c) there shall be no interference fringes
(d) there shall be an interference pattern for red mixing with
one for blue
P 5. Figure shows a standard two slit arrangement witn slits S1,
S2, P1, P2 are the two minima points on either side of P (figure).
(a) For a particular orientation, there shall be darkness as
observed through the polaroid Screen
(b) The intensity of light as seen through the polaroid shall S1 P1
be independent of the rotation
(c) The intensity of light as seen through the polaroid shall S
P
go through a minimum but not zero for two orientations S3
of the polaroid S2 P2 S4 Second
(d) The intensity of light as seen through the polaroid shall screen
go through a minimum for four orientations of the At P2 on the screen, there is a hole and behind P2 is a
polaroid second 2-slit arrangement with slits S3, S4 and a second
2. Consider sunlight incident on a slit of width 104 Å. The screen behind them.
image seen through the slit shall (a) There would be no interference pattern on the second
(a) be a fine sharp slit white in colour at the centre screen but it would be lighted
(b) a bright slit white at the centre diffusing to zero (b) The second screen would be totally dark
intensities at the edges (c) There would be a single bright point on the second
(c) a bright slit white at the centre diffusing to regions of screen
different colours (d) There would be a regular two slit pattern on the second
(d) only be a diffused slit white in colour screen
3. Consider a ray of light incident from air onto a slab of glass
NEET/AIPMT (2013-2017) Questions
(refractive index n) of width d, at an angle q. The phase
difference between the ray reflected bv the top surface of 6. In Young’s double slit experiment, the slits are 2 mm apart and
the glass and the bottom surface is are illuminated by photons of two wavelengths l1 = 12000Å
and l2 = 10000Å. At what minimum distance from the com-
12
2pd æ 1 2 ö mon central bright fringe on the screen 2 m from the slit will
(a) ç1 - 2 sin q ÷ +p a bright fringe from one interference pattern coincide with a
l è n ø
bright fringe from the other ? [2013]
4pd æ 1 2 ö
12
(a) 6 mm (b) 4mm
(b) ç1 - sin q ÷ (c) 3 mm (d) 8mm
l è n2 ø
 Wave Optics 677

7. A parallel beam of fast moving electrons is incident nor- 14. At the first minimum adjacent to the central maximum of a
mally on a narrow slit. A fluorescent screen is placed at a single-slit diffraction pattern, the phase difference between
large distance from the slit. If the speed of the electrons is the Huygen's wavelet from the edge of the slit and the
increased, which of the following statements is correct ? wavelet from the midpoint of the slit is : [2015 RS]
[2013] p
(a) The angular width of the central maximum of the dif- (a) radian (b) p radian
2
fraction pattern will increase. p p
(b) The angular width of the central maximum will decrease. (c) radian (d) radian
8 4
(c) The angular width of the central maximum will be un- 15. Two slits in Young’s experiment have widths in the ratio 1 :
affected. 25. The ratio of intensity at the maxima and minima in the
(d) Diffraction pattern is not observed on the screen in
case of electrons. Imax
interference pattern, I is: [2015 RS]
8. In Young’s double slit experiment the distance between the min
slits and the screen is doubled. The separation between 121 49
the slits is reduced to half. As a result the fringe width (a) (b)
49 121
(a) is doubled [NEET Kar. 2013]
4 9
(b) is halved (c) (d)
9 4
(c) becomes four times 16. In a diffraction pattern due to a single slit of width 'a', the
(d) remains unchanged first minimum is observed at an angle 30° when light of
9. A parallel beam of light of wavelength l is incident normally wavelength 5000 Å is incident on the slit. The first
on a narrow slit. A diffraction pattern is formed on a screen secondary maximum is observed at an angle of : [2016]
placed perpendicular to the direction of the incident beam.
æ 1ö -1 æ 2 ö
At the second minimum of the diffraction pattern, the phase
(a) sin -1 ç ÷ (b) sin çè ÷ø
difference between the rays coming from the two edges of è 4ø 3
slit is [NEET Kar. 2013]
æ 1ö -1 æ 3 ö
(a) pl (b) 2p (c) sin -1 ç ÷ (d) sin çè ÷ø
(c) 3p (d) 4p
è 2ø 4
10. A beam of light of l = 600 nm from a distant source falls on 17. The intensity at the maximum in a Young's double slit
a single slit 1 mm wide and the resulting diffraction pattern experiment is I0. Distance between two slits is d = 5l, where
is observed on a screen 2 m away. The distance between l is the wavelength of light used in the experiment. What
first dark fringes on either side of the central bright fringe will be the intensity in front of one of the slits on the screen
is: [2014] placed at a distance D = 10 d ? [2016]
(a) 1.2 cm (b) 1.2 mm I0
(c) 2.4 cm (d) 2.4 mm (a) I0 (b)
4
11. In the Young’s double-slit experiment, the intensity of light 3 I0
at a point on the screen where the path difference is l is K, (c) I0 (d)
4 2
(l being the wave length of light used). The intensity at a 18. The ratio of resolving powers of an optical microscope for
point where the path difference is l/4, will be: [2014] two wavelengths l1 = 4000 Å and l2 = 6000 Å is [2017]
(a) K (b) K/4 (a) 9 : 4 (b) 3 : 2
(c) K/2 (d) Zero (c) 16 : 81 (d) 8 : 27
12. In a double slit experiment, the two slits are 1 mm apart and 19. Young's double slit experment is first performed in air and
the screen is placed 1 m away. A monochromatic light then in a medium other than air. It is found that 8th bright
wavelength 500 nm is used. What will be the width of each fringe in the medium lies where 5th dark fringe lies in air.
slit for obtaining ten maxima of double slit within the central The refractive index of the medium is nearly [2017]
maxima of single slit pattern ? [2015] (a) 1.59 (b) 1.69
(a) 0.1 mm (b) 0.5 mm (c) 1.78 (d) 1.25
(c) 0.02 mm (d) 0.2 mm 20. Two Polaroids P1 and P2 are placed with their axis
13. For a parallel beam of monochromatic light of wavelength perpendicular to each other. Unpolarised light I0 is incident
'l', diffraction is produced by a single slit whose width 'a' is on P1. A third polaroid P3 is kept in between P1 and P2 such
of the wavelength of the light. If 'D' is the distance of the that its axis makes an angle 45° with that of P1 . The intensity
screen from the slit, the width of the central maxima will be: of transmitted light through P2 is [2017]
Dl Da I0 I0
(a) (b) [2015] (a) (b)
a l 4 8
2Da 2Dl I0 I0
(c) (d) (c) (d)
l a 16 2
 EBD_7751
678 PHYSICS

Hints & Solutions

EXERCISE - 1 EXERCISE - 2
1. (d) 2. (d) 3. (c) 4. (b) 1. (d) It is a one of Fraunhoffer diffraction from single slit.
5. (d) 6. (a) 7. (d) so for bright fringe where a is the width of slit.
8. (a) For single slit diffraction pattern e sin q = l Angular l
a sin q = (2 n + 1)
width, e = slit width 2

ælö 2 a sin q 2 ´1.2 ´10 -5 ´ 0.0906

\ q = sin -1 ç ÷ l= =
2 n +1 2 ´1 + 1
èeø
It is independent of D, distance between screen and = 7248 ´10 -10 m = 7248Å.
slit. 2. (c) Q i p = f, therefore, angle between reflected and
9. (d) Doppler effect in light explains the phenomenon of refracted rays is 90º.
receding of stars and approaching of star by red shift
and blue shift respectively. D 5 ´ 6.5 ´ 10 -7 ´ 1
3. (c) x5 = n l = = 32.5 ´ 10 -4 m
10. (d) Photoelectric effect does not support the wave nature d 10 -3
of light.
11. (b) 1 Dl 5 ´ 6.5 ´10 -7 ´1
x 3 = (2 n - 1) =
12. (b) Longitudinal waves cannot be polarised. 2 d 2 ´ 10 -3
13. (d) = 16.25 ´ 10 -4 m
14. (c) 15. (d) 16. (d)
17. (c) 18. (c) 19. (d) x 5 - x 3 = 16.25 ´ 10-4 m = 1.625 mm.
20. (b) The line rulings, each of 0.5 m m width,on a compact 4. (c) As R2 = a2 + b2 + 2 ab cos f
disc function as a diffraction grating. When a small \ I max = I1 + I 2 + 2 I1 I 2 cos 0º
source of light illuminates a disc, diffracted light forms
coloured ‘lanes’ that are the composite of the = I1 + I 2 + 2 I1 I 2
diffraction patterns from the ruling.
21. (d) When a ray of light enters nicol prism, it splits into 2p
5. (b) Phase diff. = x
two plane polarised light in mutually perpendicular l
direction. One of this light undergoes total reflection
and absorption whereas other comes out as a plane 2 p ´ 2.1´10 -6
Path difference = = 7.692 p radian.
polarised light. 5460 ´ 10 -10
22. (b) Newton first predicted deflection of light by
gravitational field. l¢ D¢ 3 l 3 D lD
6. (c) b= = = 27 .
d ¢ d/3 d
23. (c)
24. (c) Speed of light is different in different media and different No. of fringes = 1 / 3 = d .
medium has different refractive index. b 81l D
Speed of light in medium 1 7. (b) The position of n th dark fringe. So position of first
1m =
2 Speed of light in medium 2 dark fringe in x1 = lD / 2d .
d = 20 cm, D = 0.1mm, l = 5460 Å, x1 = 0.16
D 8. (c) When the arrangement is dipped in water;
25. (d) As fringe width b = l
d
x 3
b¢ =b / m = = x = 0.75x
B C 4/3 4
m = A + 2 + 4 + ... 9. (a) The angular width of central maxi. is
l l
mVacuum < mAir so lVacuum > lAir l 2 ´ 6328 ´ 10 -10
2q = 2 = radian .
Therefore when chamber is evacuated fringe width b a 2 ´ 10 - 4
slightly increases.
180
= 6328 ´ 10-6 ´ degree = 0.36º
p
 Wave Optics 679

10. (a) Width of central maximum

l 589 ´ 10-9 1
2 l D 2 ´ 6250 ´ 10 -10
´ 0.5 18. (c) sin q = = -3
= 10-3 = = 0.0001
= = d 0.589 ´ 10 1000
a - 4
2 ´ 10 19. (c) In Young's double slit experiment, half angular width
-6
= 3125 ´ 10 m = 312.5 ´ 10 cm. -3 (q) is given by
l
sin q =
d
y2sinq = 2l
a
y1sinq = l/a 589 ´ 10 –9
a q = = 10 –3
o sinq = 0 0.589 ´ 10 –3
Intensity y1sinq = – l/a \ q = sin –1 0.001
D y2sinq = – 2l 20. (b) When the light is incident at the polarising angle on
a
the transparent medium, the reflected light is
Screen position of various minima for Fraunhoffer completely polarised.
diffraction pattern of a single slit of width a. 21. (a)
r
11. (d) As reflected and refracted rays are perpendicular to 22. (d) Let any R its components are
each other, therefore, ip = i = 60º, where ip is called r r r r
angle of polarisation. R = Rx + Ry + Rz

m = tan ip = tan 60º = 3 = 1.732. r r r r

with | R |= R = | R |= R = Rx 2 + Ry 2 + Rz
–
Dl ( 6586 - 6263)
12. (b) u= ´c = ´ 3 ´ 108 Rx Ry Rz
l 6563 & cosq x = , cosq y , cosq z =
R R R
= 1.05 ´ 106 m / s. there cosqx, cosqy and cosqz one called direction
cosines.
u 10 5 r
13. (b) Dl = ´l = ´ 5700 = 1.9 Å . Hence x + y + z = c (= R )
c 3 ´ 108
14. (b) According to principle of diffraction, a sin q = nl 2 2 2
So, magnitude of c = I + I + I = 3
where, n = order of secondary minimum
or, a sin 30° = 1 × (6500 × 10–-10) 1
and cos q x =
or, a = 1.3 × 10–6 m, or, a = 1.3 micron. 3
2 23. (a) Where n is equivalent number of fringe by which the
Imax 25 æa +a ö 25 centre fringe is shifted due to mica sheet
15. (d) = or ç 1 2 ÷ =
Imin 9 a -
è 1 2ø
a 9
(m - 1) t (1.5 - 1) 6 ´10 -6
where a denotes amplitude. l= =
n 5
a1 + a 2 5
= or 5a1 - 5a 2 = 3a1 + 3a 2 = 6 ´ 10 -7 m = 6000 Å
a1 - a 2 3
24. (b) Let nth fringe of 2500 Å coincide with (n – 2)th fringe
or, 5a1 – 5a2 = 3a1 + 3a2 or 2a1 = 8a2
of 3500Å.
a1 æa ö I1
2 \ 3500 (n – 2) = 2500 × n
or, = 4 or ç 1 ÷ = 16 = . 1000 n = 7000, n = 7
a2 è a2 ø I2
\ 7th order fringe of 1st source will coincide with 5th
16. (b) order fringe of 2nd source.
17. (d) For two coherent sources, I1 = I2 25. (c) In Radar, the source & receiver are together, the
receiver being turned for frequencies other than the
( )
2
Imax = (A1 + A2)2 = I1 + I 2 source or radar frequency.
This is given as I0 for maximum and zero for minimum. To measure the speed of helicopter
If there are two noncoherent sources, there will be no (i) The moving object of speed va receive a frequency
maximum and minimum intensities. Instead of all the æ v ö
intensity I0 at maximum and zero for minimum, it will n ' = nç 1 + a ÷
è c ø
be just I0/2.
 EBD_7751
680 PHYSICS

(ii) The object which receives n’ frequency now acts as a

1
moving source. The detector observes a frequency but (cos2q)av =
n0 2
1 32
æ ö æ v ö So I1 = I0 = = 16Wm -2
ç ÷ ç1+ a ÷ 2 2
1 c
n 0 = n' ç ÷ =ç ÷ 32. (a) When angle of incidence i is equal to angle of
ç va ÷ ç va ÷
ç1- ÷ ç1- ÷ polarisation i.e, then reflected light is completely plane-
è c ø è c ø
polarised whose vibration is perpendicular to plane of
incidence.
va
Þ (n 0 - n ) = Dn = (n 0 + n ) 33. (c) Suppose intensity of unpolarised light = 100.
c
\ Intensity of polarised light from first nicol prism
Dnc æ \n0 »n ö Ι0 1
or va = ç ÷ = = ´ 100 = 50
2n è Þn0 +n»2n ø 2 2
According to law of Malus,
26. (a) As b µ l
2
æ1ö
5 Ι = Ι0 cos 2 q = 50 (cos 60º )2 = 50 ´ ç ÷ = 12.5
\ fringe width becomes times, è2ø
4
34. (a) According to law of Malus
4 2
No, of fringes = ´10 = 8 æ 1 ö Ι
5 Ι = Ι 0 cos 2 q = Ι 0 (cos 45º ) 2 = Ι 0 çç ÷÷ = 0
è 2ø 2
b 0.133
27. (b) b¢ = = = 0.1 cm
m 1.33 u 0.2 c
35. (b) Dn = ´n = ´ 4 ´ 10 7 = 0.8 ´ 10 7 Hz
28. (c) The position of n th dark fringe in Fraunhoffer c c
Diffraction from a single slit is 7
n ¢ = n - Dn = 4 ´ 10 7 - 0.8 ´ 10 7 = 3.2 ´10 Hz.
a sin q = n l
36. (a) When planet or stars are receding away from earth. If
-7 f is frequency of vibration.
n l 1´ 6.5 ´ 10
a= = , (for first min. n = 1)
sin q sin 30º c
Then , f =
l
6.5 ´10 -7 If v = velocity of body moving away
= = 13 ´10 -7 m = 1.3 m m.
1/ 2 l' = apparent wavelength to an observer on the earth
29. (a) a sin q = nl
l' =
(c + v )
(c and v are in opposite to each other)
ax f
= 3l
f æc+vö æ vö
=ç ÷l l ' = ç1 + ÷ l
(since q is very small so sin q » tan q » q = x / f ) è c ø è cø

a x 0.3 ´10 -3 ´ 5 ´10 -3 l '- l v

=
or l = =
3f 3 ´1 l c
Fractional change in wavelength
= 5 ´ 10 -7 m = 5000 Å. v
\ 1=
Þ v =c
30. (d) Limit of resolution L.R µ l c
37. (b) The fluorescent material present in the tube converts
l¢ 4800
\ L.R ¢ = L.R ´ = 0.1 ´ = 0.08 mm. u.v. rays into visible light.
l 6000 38. (b) For path difference l, phase
\ Resolution improves when light of lower wavelength
is used. æ 2p 2p ö
difference = 2p ç Q = x = .l = 2p ÷
31. (b) Intensity of polarised light transmitted from 1st è l l ø
polariser, Þ I = I0 + I0 + 2I0 cos 2p
I1 = I0 cos2q Þ I = 4I0 (\ cos 2p = 1)
 Wave Optics 681

l p 44. (c) By covering aperture, focal length does not change.

For x = , phase difference = 1
4 2 But intensity is reduced by times, as aperture
4
p d
\ I' = I1 + I 2 + 2 I1 I 2 cos diameter is covered.
2 2
I I I 3I
If I1 = I2 = I0 then I ' = 2I0 = 2. = \ I' = I - =
4 2 4 4
39. (b) If the angular limit of resolution of human eye is R 3I
then \ New focal length = f and intensity = .
4
1.22l 1.22 ´ 5 ´ 10 -7 nlD
R= = rad 45. (a) Q y =
a 2 ´ 10 -3 d
\ n1 l1 = n2l2
1.22 ´ 5 ´ 10 -7 180 Þ n1 × 12000 × 10–10 = n2 × 10000 × 10–10
= ´ ´ 60 mi nute = 1 minute
2 ´ 10 -3 p or, n (12000 × 10–10) = (n + 1) (10000 × 10–10)
40. (d) By principle of polarization, µ = tanqp Þn=5
or µ = tan 54.74° or µ = 1.414
For an equilateral prism, ÐA = 60°
(Q l 1 = 12000 ´ 10 -10 m; l 2 = 10000 ´ 10-10 m )
æ A + dö æ 60° + d ö
sin ç sin ç
è 2 ÷ø è 2 ÷ø
\ m= =
sin ( A / 2) sin ( 60° / 2)

1.141 ´ 1 æ 60° + d ö é
or, = sin ç Q1.414 = 2 ùû
2 è 2 ÷ø ë

2 æ 60° + d ö 1 æ 60° + d ö
or, = sin ç or = sin ç
2 è 2 ÷ø 2 è 2 ÷ø
nl1D
Hence, ycommon =
æ 60° + d ö æ 60° + d ö d
or, sin 45° = sin çè ÷ø or 45° = çè ÷

41. (a)
2 2 ø
=
(
5 12000 ´ 10-10 ´ 2 ) (Q d = 2 mm and D = 2m )
-3
2 ´ 10
( 2n + 1) l D = 5 × 12 × 10–4 m
42. (c) x=
2a = 60 × 10–4 m
= 6 × 10–3m = 6 mm
( 4 + 1) D
For red light, x = ´ 6500Å
2a

( 6 + 1) D Y
For other light, x = ´ lÅ S1
2a
46. (b) d q
x is same for each. D
S2
5
\ 5 ´ 6500 = 7 ´ l Þ l = ´ 6500 = 4642.8 Å.
7
Y nlD é Dl ù
êQ Y = d ú
43. (b) aµ = tan q where q = polarising angle.
g P P Angular width, q = =
D dD ë û
or, aµg = tan 60°
l
c so, q = , v ­l ¯ q ¯ [For central maxima n = 1]
or, = 3 d
vg
Hence, with increase in speed of electrons angular
width of central maximum decreases.
c 3 ´ 108
or, vg = = = 3 ´ 108 ms -1 47. (a) 48. (b) 49. (a) 50. (b)
3 3
 EBD_7751
682 PHYSICS

EXERCISE - 3 N
P P¢
Exemplar Questions q
q
1. (c) Let us consider the diagram shown below the light beam
O
incident from air to the glass slab at Brewster’s angle
(ip). The angle between reflected ray BE and BC is 90°. r r r¢ P¢ d
Then only reflected ray is plane polarised represented N¢
by arrows. q
P
As the emergent and incident ray are unpolarised, so,
polaroid rotated in the way of CD then the intensity nd
\ Dt =
cannot be zero but varies in one complete rotation. æ sin 2 q ö
12

N c ç1 - 2 ÷
Polarised è n ø
A E
iP -1 2
nd æ sin 2 q ö
= ç1 - 2 ÷ø
90º
c è n
B
2p
r Phase difference = Df = ´ Dt
T
C
-1 2
2pd æ sin 2 q ö
= 1 çè1 - ÷
n2 ø
Polaroid D × nl
(P) n
2. (a) As given that the width of the slit -1 2
2pd é sin 2 q ù
=104 Å = 10000 Å Df = 1- 2 ú
= 104×10–10 m = l0–6 m = 1 µm l êë n û
Wavelength of visible sunlight varies from 4000 Å to \ Hence the net phase difference = Df + p
8000 Å. -1 2
2 pd æ 1 2 ö
Thus the width of slit is 10000 Å comparable to that of = ç1 - sin q ÷ + p
wavelength visible light i.e., 8000 Å. So diffraction occurs l è n2 ø
with maxima at centre. Hence at the centre all colours 4. (c) For sustained interference pattern to be formed on the
appear i.e., mixing of colours form white patch at the screen, the sources must be coherent and emits lights
centre. of same frequency and wavelength.
3. (a) Let, us consider the diagram, the ray (P) is incident at In a Young’s double-slit experiment, when one of the
an angle q and gets reflected in the direction P' and holes is covered by a red filter and another by a blue
refracted in the direction P' through O'. Due to reflection filter. In this case due to filteration only red and blue
from the glass medium there is a phase change of p. lights are present which has different frequency. In this
The time difference between two refracted ray OP' and monochromatic light is used for the formation of fringes
O'P'' is equal to the time taken by ray to travel along on the screen. So, in that case there shall be no
OO'. interference fringes.
5. (d) Consider the given figure there is a hole at point P2. By
OO¢ d cos r nd
Dt = = = Huygen’s principle, wave will propagates from the
Vg cn c cos r sources S1 and S2. Each point on the screen will acts as
sin q sources of secondary wavelets.
From Snell's law,n = Wavefront starting from P2 reaches at S3 and S4 which
sin r
will again act as two monochromatic or coherent sources.
sin q Hence, there will be always a regular two slit pattern on
sin r =
n the second screen.
As we know that,
Past Years (2013-2017) NEET/AIPMT
cos r = 1 - sin 2 r ,
so by putting sin r value in that relation. nlD
6. (a) Q y =
So, cos r = 1 - sin r 2 d
\ n1 l1 = n2l2
sin 2 q Þ n1 × 12000 × 10–10 = n2 × 10000 × 10–10
cos r = 1 -
n2 or, n (12000 × 10–10) = (n + 1) (10000 × 10–10)
Þ n=5
 Wave Optics 683

(Q l )
Width of central bright fringe (= 2b)
1 = 12000 ´ 10 -10 m; l 2 = 10000 ´ 10-10 m
2lD 2 ´ 600 ´ 10 - 6 ´ 2
= = m
d 1 ´ 10 - 3
= 2.4 × 10– 3 m = 2.4 mm
11. (c) For path difference l, phase difference = 2p rad.
l p
For path difference , phase difference = rad.
4 2
As K = 4I0 so intensity at given point where path
l
difference is
4
nl1D
Hence, ycommon =
d 2 æ pö æ p ö
K¢ = 4I0 cos ç ÷ ç cos = cos 45º÷
è 4ø è ø
( )
4
5 12000 ´ 10-10 ´ 2
= K
-3 = 2I0 =
2 ´ 10
2
(Q d = 2 mm and D = 2m ) 12. (d) Here, distance between two slits,
= 5 × 12 × 10–4 m d = 1mm = 10–3m
= 60 × 10–4 m distance of screen from slits, D = 1 m
= 6 × 10–3m = 6 mm wavelength of monochromatic light used,
l = 500nm = 500 × 10–9m
width of each slit a = ?
2lD
Width of central maxima in single slit pattern =
a
Y
lD
d Fringe width in double slit experiment b =
7. (b) d
10 l D 2 l D
So, required condition =
d a
d 1
Þ a= = ´ 10–3 m = 0.2 mm
Y nlD é Dl ù 5D 5
Angular width, q = = êQ Y=
D dD ë d úû 13. (d) Linear width of central maxima y

l 2D l l
so, q = , v ­l ¯ q ¯ = D(2q) = 2Dq = \ q=
d a a
[For central maxima n = 1]
Hence, with increase in speed of electrons angular
width of central maximum decreases.
lD
8. (c) Fringe width b = ;
d
q y
d q
From question D¢ = 2D and d ¢ =
2
lD1
\b ' = = 4b D
d1
9. (d) Conditions for diffraction minima are
Path diff. Dx = nl and Phase diff. df = 2np 14. (b) For first minima at P
Path diff. = nl = 2l AP – BP = l
Phase diff. = 2np = 4p (Q n = 2) l
AP – MP =
10. (d) Given: D = 2m; d = 1 mm = 1 × 10– 3 m 2
l = 600 nm = 600 × 10– 6 m
 EBD_7751
684 PHYSICS

Phase difference,
2p l p
P Df = ´ =
l 4 2
So, resultant intensity at the desired point 'p' is
f p I0
A f I = I0cos2 = I0cos2 4 = 2
2
M f O
2m sin q
18. (b) Resolving power of a microscope =
B l
1
2p l i.e., R µ
So phase difference, f = ´ = p radian l
l 2
R1 l 2
1 or, R = l
15. (d) The ratio of slits width = (given) 2 1
25
Given that the two wavelengths,
I1 25
\ l1 = 4000Å
I2 = 1
l 2 = 6000Å
I A 2 25 A 5
I µ A2 Þ 1 = 12 = or 1 = R1 6000Å 3
I2 A 2 1 A2 1 \ = =
R2 4000Å 2
A max A1 + A 2 5 + 1 6 3 19. (c) According to question
= = = = 8th bright fringe in medium = 5th dark fring in air
A min A1 - A 2 5 - 1 4 2
lD
2
Imax A max æ3ö 9
2 Y8th bright = 8
= 2 =ç ÷ = md
\
Imin A min è 2 ø 4
lD 9 lD
16. (d) For the first minima, Y5th dark = (2 × 5 – 1) =
2d 2 d
hl l 1 9 lD lD
q= Þ sin30° = = Þ =8
a a 2 2 d md
First secondary maxima will be at
16
3l 3 æ 1 ö or, refractive index m = = 1.78
æ 3ö 9
sin q = = ç ÷ Þ q = sin–1 ç ÷
2a 2 è 2 ø è 4ø
17. (d) Let P is a point infront of one slit at which intensity is
to be calculated. From figure,
20. (b)
S1 P

d O B

S2
D According to malus law, I = I0cos2 q
Path difference = S2P – S1P I0
I1 =
æ 1d ö 2 2
= D2 + d 2 - D = D ç1 + ÷-D
è 2 D2 ø I0 I0 1 I0
I2 = cos2 45° = ´ =
2 2 2 4
é d2 ù d2
= D ê1 + - 1ú = I0
ë 2D 2 û 2D I3 = cos2 45°
4
d2 d 5l l I0
Dx = = = = I3 =
2 ´10d 20 20 4 8