MODULE 2 (CHAPTER1) ie the resultant displacement, Y=y1+y2+….
(,where y1,y2,…are
INTERFERENCE
(3 MARKS QUESTIONS)
1) What are coherent sources.
Ans : Coherent sources are those sources which emit light waves
having same frequency, same wavelength and maintain constant
phase difference with each other
2) Explain interference of light
Ans : The non-uniform distribution or redistribution of light intensity
due to the superposition of two or more coherent waves is knownas
interference.
This intensity distribution when obtained on a screen, would contain
bright and dark bands(fringes) ,which is termed as interference
pattern. The distance between any two consecutive bright or dark
bands is called bandwidth
3) Explain why a thin film illuminated with white light shows
brilliant colours.
Ans : We know that for thin film interference, the condition for
destructive interference is given by 2µtcosr = nλ.
The wavelength of light satisfying the above condition will be absent
in the reflected light from the thin film and a mixture of remaining
colours will be seen at the point. If red satisfies the above condition the
film will appear blue-violet in colour, if blue satisfies the above
condition the film will appear red in colour and if green satisfies the
above condition film will appear deep purple in colour.
4) Explain super position principle.
Ans : The resultant displacement produced at a point in a continuous
medium due to a number of waves is the vector sum of the displacement
produced by the individual waves
1 2
8) Explain why we observe circular fringes in Newton’s ring
experiment and straight line fringes in Air wedge experiment.
Ans : In Newton’s rings experiment, the locus of all points having same
thickness on the film falls on a circle.
In Air wedge set up locus of all points having same thickness on the film
falls on a line.
9) What will be the effect of diameter of Newton’s ring if we replace
air film with liquid film between plano convex lens and glass
plate.
Ans : The diameter of the rings will shrink.
(𝐷𝑚2 – 𝐷𝑛2 )
Refractive index, µ = 2 – 𝑑2 )
(𝑑𝑚 𝑛
OR
µ = Dn2/dn2,
where Dn- diameter of nth ring with air film and dn diameter of nth ring
with liquid film
10) Explain why the Centre of Newton’s ring pattern is dark ?.
Ans : At the center, the thickness of the film is extremely small
(t0),due to denser reflection there will be an additional path difference
of λ/2 which favours destructive interference and the center appears
dark.
11) Write the condition for constructive and destructive
interference in thin films.
Ans : Condition for destructive interference 2µtcosr=nλ
Condition for constructive interference 2µtcosr=(2n+1)λ/2
where µ- refractive index, r-angle of refraction, n-order, λ-wavelength of
light used.
3 4
displacement of individual waves)
5) Explain optical path.
Ans : Optical path , dop is equivalent to a distance d in a medium of
refractive index µ is given by
dop = µd.
This means that a distance d in a medium of refractive index µ is
equivalent to a distance µd in air.
6) Obtain the expression for optical path.
Ans : If light takes ‘t’ time to cover a distance ‘d’ in a medium of
refractive index ‘μ’,with velocity ‘v’,
then, d=vt.
During this time ,t the distance travelled by the light in vacuum or air
,with velocity c is given by dop = ct
Then dop/d = ct/vt =c/v =μ (where refractive index, μ =c/v)
ie
Optical path, dop =μd
7) Explain why extremely thin film viewed with white light appears
dark and a thick film appears white.
Ans : In thin film interference , we have the expression for path
difference between the reflected rays ,∆=2µtcosr- λ/2
If the thickness of the film is extremely small (t0) the path difference
between the reflected rays is λ/2 which favours destructive interference
and the film looks dark.
If the thickness is large then almost all colours (reflected light rays) will
undergo constructive interference which results in white light and film
appears white.
12) Write four applications of interference of light.
Ans :
1)Antireflecting coating in optical instrument
2)Interference filters used in spectroscopy
3)Ring laser gyroscope
4)Gravitational wave detector.
13) How do you test the plainness of glass plate using air wedge
setup.
Ans :
With the test glass plate and an optically plane glass plate(of known
plainness), an air wedge arrangement is formed. It is then illuminated
with normally incident parallel beam of light(monochromatic) and the
fringes formed are observed. If the fringes are straight line fringes or
have equal thickness and orderly placed then the test glass plate is plane
. If the fringes are of un equal thickness or not straight then the test
glass plate is not plane.
 14) Why two independent sources of light cannot behave as a
coherent sources? 16) Write the expression for diameter of nth bright and dark
Ans : Newton’s rings
Ans :

Light is emitted due to the de-excitation of electrons from excited states The expression for diameter nth bright ring
to lower energy states(levels) of various atoms in the light source. These
(2𝑛+1)𝜆
de-excitation can also be to different lower energy levels in different Dn = √(2R(2n + 1)λ) and radius rn2 =R
2
atoms resulting in emission of different wavelengths.. When you take two
light sources it is not possible for all the atoms to get de-excited to the The expression for diameter nth dark ring Dn = √4𝑅𝑛𝜆 and radius
same lower energy level at the same time(causing phase difference). So rn2 = Rnλ (where R-radius of curvature of Plano convex lens, n-order of
the waves emitted by two independent sources of light do not have the spectrum and λ- wavelength of light used).
same phase or cannot maintain constant phase difference with each
other. Therefore we can conclude that two independent sources cannot
be coherent
17) How an air wedge setup is formed?
OR Ans :

15) Two independent sources of light cannot produce

interference fringes. Why?

Ans : Light waves emitted by two independent sources of light will not be
coherent . Because they do not maintain a constant phase relationship or a
constant phase difference with each other ,even if they have same amplitude
and frequency. Only coherent sources can produce interference pattern.

An air wedge consists of a wedge-shaped air film formed between two flat
reflecting surfaces(optically plane glass plates).The glass plates are placed
in such a way that, at one end they are in contact but they are slightly
5 6

separated at the other end by placing a piece of paper or a thin wire.. 19) Explain spatial and temporal coherence.
On illuminating the air wedge with a Ans : Spatial coherence : It refers to the phase correlation between
monochromatic light source we get an interference pattern, light waves at two spatially separated points measured at the same time
consisting of straight line fringes or fringes of equal thickness in a plane perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation.
Temporal coherence : It refers to the phase correlation between light
waves at same point during a time interval (∆t).
18) How an anti reflecting or nonreflecting coating (film) is
constructed? 20) Explain coherence length and coherence time.
Ans : Ans : The average length of a wave packet emitted by a light source
is called coherence length(Lc) and the average time duration for this
Nonreflecting coating are thin transparent dielectric film applied over the is called coherence time (τ c).
The relation between coherence length and coherence time is given by
surface of lenses of telescopes, binoculars and other optical instruments 𝐿𝑐
to reduce reflection. This process of coating is called blooming. The the equation c = ,where c-velocity of light
𝜏𝑐
refractive index of the film(MgF2) lies in between that of air and the Coherence length of a light source if it emits two nearby wavelengths
glass(lens). 𝜆20
λ1 and λ2 is given by Lc = , here λ0 = (λ1+λ2)/2 mean wavelength
Since both the reflected rays from the top and bottom surfaces of the film ∆λ
undergo a phase change of π or 180 o due to denser reflection, the reflected and ∆λ=λ2-λ1 -is the difference in wavelength or wavelength spread.
light always undergo constructive interference and we lose incident light
by reflection.

To transmit these rays or to reduce the loss of incident light by reflection 21) Explain the experimental set up for obtaining Newton’s
,the following condition must be satisfied: rings.

a) These reflected rays must undergo destructive interference.

b) They must have same amplitude.

Ans : The experiment setup for observing Newton’s ring pattern is shown in fig1.
The light from a monochromatic source is made to fall
normally(using a glass plate G1 inclined at an angle of 45 0 with the incident light)
7 8
on an air film formed between a plano-convex lens L and a glass plate G. The light dividing eqn(1) with eqn(2) we get
reflected from the top and bottom surface of the air film produce interference pattern
in the form of concentric rings called Newton’s rings. This interference pattern can (𝐷𝑚2 – 𝐷𝑛
2)
µ = 2 – 𝑑2 ) ------(3)
be viewed using a travelling microscope M (𝑑𝑚 𝑛
 The reason for ring shaped interference pattern is that ,in the air film the above expression shows that the diameter of the ring will shrinks if
the locus of all points having same thickness falls on a circle. we replace air film with a medium of higher refractive index,’μ’ .
 Due to denser reflection the center of ring system will always be dark.
24) Explain the experiment setup for obtaining the diameter of a
22) Obtain the expression for wavelength of a monochromatic thin wire using air wedge setup.
light using Newton’s ring experiment. Ans:
Ans : Let Dm and Dn be the diameter of mth and nth dark ring
respectively. Then we have Using a travelling microscope n th and (n+m) th dark ring reading is noted as
x n and x (n+m) respectively. The fringe width(band width) is given by
Dn = 4Rnλ ------(1)
2
xm+n −xn
β=
Dm2 = 4Rmλ-------(2) (m>n) m

Then subtraction eqn(2) from eqn(1) we get

Dm2 – Dn2 =4Rλ(m-n)------(3)

2 – 𝐷𝑛2 )
(𝐷𝑚
ie λ = --------(4)
4𝑅(𝑚−𝑛)

23) Obtain the expression for refractive index of a liquid using

Newton’s ring experiment.
Ans :
Let Dm and Dn be the diameter of mth and nth dark ring respectively
with air film between plano convex lens and glass plate.Then we have
Dm2 – Dn2 =4Rλ(m-n)-----(1)
If we replace the air film with a liquid (water) of refractive index µ and
the corresponding diameters of mth and nth dark ring be dm and dn
respectively.
Then Then by adjusting the horizontal screw of travelling microscope length of
4Rλ(m−n) the wedge is calculated as, L = R2-R1,where R1 and R2 are the reading
dm2 – dn2 = -------(2)
µ corresponding to the two edges of the wedge in the microscope scale.

9 10

The diameter of the wire is calculated using the equation. 27)Explain the type of interference based on the mode of production of
interference?
λL
d= (where λ –wavelength of light used. β -fringe width,
2β Ans:
L-length of wedge)
Based on the mode of production of interference there are two types of interference.
25)Write a note on interference pattern with white light.
a)Division of wave front:
Ans:
In this the incident wave front is divided into two parts and they are made combined
With white light interference pattern will be colored in general. The to produce interference pattern .Eg –Young’s double slit experiment
central fringe will be bright and few colored fringes will be formed on
b) Division of amplitude
either side of the central fringe. As the distance from central fringe
increases the color of the fringes fades away and uniform white light is In this the amplitude of the incident light is divided into two parts and they are
produced. combined to produce interference pattern. Eg-Thin film interference, Newton’s ring
experiment.
If we use white light in Newton’s ring experiment ,then few colored rings
can be observed around the point of contact between the plano convex lens
and glass plate. Due to overlapping of higher order fringes ,the pattern
ESSAY QUESTIONS
disappears on the outer portion.
THIN FILM INTERFERENCE
26)Why in Newton’s ring experiment diameter of the ring decreases
``` (For detailed derivation refer pages 29-44)
with increase in order of the fringes?
1)With necessary theory obtain the expression for constructive and destructive
Ans:
interference in the case of a thin film interference.
Diameter of dark ring is proportional to square root of natural numbers
Ans:
(Dn = √4𝑅𝑛𝜆 )0r (Dn α √𝑛 ) and diameter of bright ring is proportional to square
root of odd numbers(Dn = √2𝑅(2𝑛 + 1)𝜆 ) or Dn α √(2𝑛 + 1) . Thus the Consider a thin transparent film ( figure1.) of thickness ‘t’, and refractive index µ.
diameter of the ring does not increases in the same proportion as the order (n)of Let SA be the incident ray .Also let ‘i’ be the angle of incidence and’ r’ be the angle
the ring increases. And as a result ring get closer and closer towards the end. of refraction.

The reflected rays are AP and EB and the transmitted rays are AE and BQ.

These reflected rays undergo interference and produce interference pattern which
depends on the path difference(∆) between the rays AEBQ and AP

11 12
 To find AN and AM

From ∆ANB

AN = 2AMsini----(4) ( from fig AM =MB and AB = AM+MB =2AM)

To find AM

From ∆AME AM = t*tanr ---------(5)

Applying Snell’s law at point A (in fig)

sini = µsinr-----(6)

substituting eqn(5) and eqn(6) in eqn(4) and using tanr = sinr/cosr we get

𝑠𝑖𝑛2 𝑟
ie AN = 2µt ----(7)
𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑟

substituting eqn(3) and eqn(7) in eqn(2) we get

The path difference, between the rays AEBQ and AP is given by

.
∆=2µtcosr------(8)

This is known as cosine law.

The path difference, ∆ = µ(AE+EB)-AN-------->(1)

From fig we can find that AE=EB (∆AME≅∆BME), therefore eqn (1) can be written λ
Due to denser reflection ray AN travels an additional path of
as 2

∆ = 2µAE-AN----(2) Therefore eqn(8) becomes

To find AE λ
,∆ = 2µtcosr − ------(9)
2
From ∆AME,
The above equation represents the optical path difference, between the rays AEBQ
t and AP.
ie AE= -----(3)
𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑟

13 14

Condition For Constructive Interference(film appears bright) If the thickness of the film is extremely small (t0) the path difference between
the reflected rays is λ/2 which favours destructive interference and the film
Path difference,
appears dark.
λ
∆ = 2µtcosr − = nλ If the thickness is large then almost all reflected light rays (colours) will undergo
2
constructive interference which results in white light and film appears white
(2𝑛+1)𝜆
Or 2µtcosr = -------(12)
2
Eqn(12) represent the condition for constructive interference in thin film . NEWTON’S RINGS
(For detailed derivation refer pages 29-44)
Condition For Destructive Interference(film appear dark)

Path difference,
2) Obtain the expression for diameter of bright and dark ring in Newton’s ring
λ (2𝑛−1)𝜆 experiment. Also obtain the expression for wavelength and refractive index
∆=2µtcosr − = using Newton’s ring experiment setup
2 2
OR
Or 2µtcosr = nλ------(13)
Explain the formation of Newton’s rings. Also with necessary theory explain
Eqn(13) represent the condition for destructive interference in thin film .
the experimental procedure to find the expression for wavelength and
refractive index using Newton’s ring experiment setup
OR
COLOURS IN THIN FILM Explain how Newton’s rings are formed? Show that the radius of dark ring
We know that for thin films the condition for destructive interference is given by formed by Newton’s rings is proportional to square root of the order of the
2μtcosr = nλ ring.

The wavelength of light satisfying the above condition will be absent in the Ans:
reflected light from the thin film and a mixture of remaining colours will be seen at
the point. If red satisfies the above condition the film will appear blue-violet in
colour, if blue satisfies the above condition the film will appear red in color and if
green satisfies the above condition film will appear deep purple in colour.

EXTREMLY THICK AND THIN FILMS

In thin film interference , we have the expression for path difference between the

reflected rays , .. ∆=2µtcosr - λ2

15 16
 The experiment setup for observing Newton’s ring pattern is shown in fig1.
The light from a monochromatic source is made to fall normally on an From the property of circle(intersecting chord theorem)
air film formed between a plano-convex lens L and a glass plate G. The light we have
reflected from the top and bottom surface of the air film interfere and produce AC*CB = DC*CO
interference pattern . consisting of of concentric rings called Newton’s rings. AC*CB = ( DO-CO )*CO -------(1)
 The reason for ring shaped interference pattern is that ,in the air film
the locus of all points having same thickness falls on a circle. From fig we can find that AC=CB = rn, and CO = t .
 Due to denser reflection the center of ring system will always be dark.
Also DC = DO – CO = 2R – t
Theory
In the below fig, LOL’ is the Plano convex lens whose radius of curvature Therefore eqn (1) can be written as
is R and it is placed over a glass plate G. Let t be the thickness of the air film rn2 = (2R – t )t
corresponding to nth ring having radius rn.
rn2 =2Rt – t2 -------(2)

since 2Rt>>t2 , we can neglect t2 ,then eqn (2) can be written as

𝑟𝑛2
2t = -------(3)
𝑅

Expression for diameter of nth bright ring(constructive interference)

We know that the condition for constructive interference or bright ring in the case
of thin film interference is given by
(2𝑛+1)𝜆
2µtcosr =
2

For normal incidence , cosr=1 and for air film µ = 1,therefore above eqn becomes
(2𝑛+1)𝜆
2t = ------ (4)
2

Comparing eqn(3) with eqn (4)

𝑟𝑛2 (2𝑛+1)𝜆
=
𝑅 2

17 18

then diameter of nth dark ring is given by

then radius of nth bright ring as 2

𝐷𝑛
rn2 = OR 𝐷𝑛2 = 4 rn2
4
(2𝑛+1)𝜆
rn2 =R
2 ie Dn = 4𝑅𝑛𝜆 -----(9)
2

then diameter of nth bright ring is given by Or Dn = √4𝑅𝑛𝜆

2
𝐷𝑛
rn2 = OR 𝐷𝑛2 = 4 rn2
4

𝟐𝑹(𝟐𝒏+𝟏)𝝀
ie Dn2 = -------(5)
Expression for wavelength of monochromatic light using Newton’s ring
arrangement
Or Dn = √2𝑅(2𝑛 + 1)𝜆

Let Dm and Dn be the diameter of mth and nth dark ring respectively. Then from
equation (9) we have
Expression for diameter of nth dark ring (destructive interference)
Dn2 = 4Rnλ ------(10)

Dm2 = 4Rmλ-------(11) (m>n)

We know that the condition for destructive interference or dark ring in the case of
thin film interference is given by
Then subtracting eqn(10) from eqn(11) we get
2µtcosr =nλ-------(6)
Dm2 – Dn2 =4Rλ(m-n)------(12)
For normal incidence cosr=1 and for air film µ = 1,therefore above eqn becomes
2 – 𝐷𝑛2 )
(𝐷𝑚
2t =nλ--------(7) ie λ = --------(13)
4𝑅(𝑚−𝑛)
Comparing eqn(7) with eqn (3) we get
Expression for refractive index of a liquid using Newton’s ring arrangement
𝑟𝑛2
= nλ
𝑅
Let Dm and Dn be the diameter of mth and nth dark ring respectively with air film
between plano convex lens and glass plate.Then we have from eqn(12)
rn2 = Rnλ ------(8)
19 20
Dm2 – Dn2 =4Rλ(m-n)-----(14) a monochromatic source is made parallel using a converging lens and using a glass
plate inclined at 450 ,these parallel light rays are made to fall normally on the
If we replace the air film with water of refractive index µ and the corresponding
wedge shaped air film formed between two glass plates . The light reflected
diameters of mth and nth dark ring be dm and dn respectively.
from the top and bottom surface of wedge shaped air film interfere and
Then using eqn (12) produce interference pattern. consisting of straight line fringes or fringes
of equal thickness.
4Rλ(m−n)
dm2 – dn2 = -------(15)
µ

dividing eqn(14) with eqn(15) we get  In Air wedge set up the interference pattern contain straight line
fringes, because the locus of all points having same thickness falls on
a straight line.
(𝐷𝑚2 – 𝐷𝑛
2)
µ = 2 – 𝑑2 ) ------(16)
(𝑑𝑚 𝑛

the above expression shows that the diameter of the ring will shrinks if we replace
air film with a medium of higher refractive index.

AIR WEDGE

(For detailed derivation refer pages 29-44)

3) With necessary theory write the formation of interference pattern in an

air wedge and also derive the expression for the bandwidth. Also with
necessary theory explain the experimental procedure to find the diameter of a
thin wire using air wedge setup.

Ans: For thin film interference the condition for getting dark band is given by
2µ tcosr =nλ
Consider a wedge shaped air film formed between two glass plates G1and
G2 as shown in the figure. Let the angle of air wedge be θ, x be the length
of wedge and t is the thickness of the film at B . The light from
21 22

For normal incidence , cosr=1,therefore above eqn becomes

,2µ t=nλ -----(1) Determination of diameter of a thin wire using air wedge setup

From fig, t=xtanθ-----(2)

Substituting eqn(2) in eqn(1) we get

2µxtanθ = nλ,
nλ
Or x= -----(3)
2µtanθ

Let x n and x (n+m) are the distance of n th and (n+m) th dark band from edge A

and using eqn(3)

xm+n −xn
The fringe width, β =
m
λ
ie β= ----(4).
2µtanθ

For air film µ =1

λ An air wedge is formed by keeping two glass plates in contact at one end and a thin
Therefore fringe width , β= .------(5)(where : λ −wavelength,
2tanθ wire at the other end. On illuminating the air wedge with a monochromatic
µ −refractive index of liquid used, θ − angle of wedge light source of wavelength λ , we get interference fringes of equal
thickness which can be observed using travelling microscope.

If d is the diameter of the wire,µ is the refractive index of film,

λ is the wavelength of light used, θ is the angle of wedge and L is
the length of the wedge then we have the expression for bandwidth
λ
β= -------(6)
2µtanθ

from ∆ABC ,
d
tanθ = ------(7)
L

23 24
Substituting eqn (7) in eqn (6) we get
λL Using a travelling microscope (M), n t h and (n+m) th dark band reading is
β=
2µd noted as x n and x (n+m) respectively. The fringe width is given by

then diameter of the wire is given by the expression

λL xm+n −xn
d= -------(8), β=
2µβ m
For air film µ =1 ,then eqn(8) becomes The by adjusting the horizontal screw of travelling microscope length of
the wedge is calculated from L = R2-R1,where R1 and R2 are the reading
λL
d= ------(9) corresponding to the two edges of the wedge in the microscope scale.
2β
The diameter of the wire is calculated using the equation
where L- length of wedge, λ-wavelength, µ −refractive index of liquid
used, β - fringe width
λL
d=
2β
EXPERIMENT SETUP (Determination of diameter of a thin wire using air
wedge setup)
Testing of planeness of surfaces using air wedge setup

With the test glass plate and an optically plane glass plate, an air wedge is formed.
It is then illuminated with normally incident parallel beam of light and the fringes
formed are observed. If the fringes are straight line fringes or have equal thickness
and orderly placed then the test glass plate is plane and If the fringes are of un
equal thickness or not straight then the test glass plate is not plane.
25 26

1
be equal to of the wavelength of light to be transmitted without reflection
4
ANTI REFLECTING FILMS OR NON REFLECTING FILMS .Such coating eliminate reflection and allow more light to pass through the optical
component
1) What is an antireflecting coating? Explain its construction and working
with the help of a neat diagram? Since the above equation satisfies only for a particular wavelength we always choose
the wavelength in yellow-green region where human eye is more sensitive.
Ans:

Proof
(2𝑛+1)𝜆
For destructive interference of reflected rays, 2µ tcosr =
2

For normal incidence cosr=1, and for n=0 above eqn becomes
λ
t=
4µ

Nonreflecting films are thin transparent dielectric film applied over the surface of b) Amplitude condition
solar panel, lenses of telescopes, binoculars and other optical instruments to reduce The amplitude of reflected rays ,A1and A2 are equal only if µ f = √µ𝑔
loss of light by reflection . This process of coating is called blooming. The refractive
index of the film(MgF2) lies in between that of air and the glass(lens). .If µ g =1.5 then µ f = 1.22. Since MgF2 has µ f =1.38 , it is widely used as antireflection
coating. (Where µ f – refractive index of film and µ g- refractive index of glass)
Since both the reflected rays from the top and bottom surfaces of the film undergo a
phase change of π or 180 o due to denser reflection, these reflected light always
undergo constructive interference and we lose incident light by reflection.
APPLICATIONS OF INTERFERENCE
To transmit these rays or eliminate reflection:
1) Ring laser gyroscope
a) These reflected rays must undergo destructive interference. 2) Signal processing including signal jammer
3) Testing of flatness of optical surfaces
b) They must have same amplitude
4) Measurement of thickness of a thin film, wavelength of monochromatic light,
a)For reflected rays to undergo destructive interference. measurement of angle of a wedge etc
5) Holography(3D images) and various sensors like displacement sensor
6) Interference principle is used in the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-
For the reflected rays to undergo destructive interference the thickness of the film Wave Observatory (LIGO) ,which is a large-scale physics experiment and
λ observatory to detect gravitational wave
must satisfies the equation t= .Thus the optical thickness of the coating should
4µ

27 28
 DETAILED DERIVATIONS From fig we can find that AE=EB (∆AME≅∆BME), therefore eqn (1) can be written
as

∆ = 2µAE-AN----(2)
THIN FILM INTERFERENCE
To find AE
1)With necessary theory obtain the expression for constructive and destructive
interference in the case of a thin film interference. From ∆AME,

Ans: ME t
Cosr = = ,(whereME = t,thickness of film)
𝐴𝐸 𝐴𝐸
Consider a thin transparent film ( figure1.) of thickness ‘t’, and refractive index µ.
Let SA be the incident ray .Also let ‘i’ be the angle of incidence and’ r’ be the angle t
ie AE= -----(3)
of refraction. 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑟

The reflected rays are AP and EB and the transmitted rays are AE and BQ.

These reflected rays undergo interference and produce interference pattern which To find AN and AM
depends on the path difference,(∆ ) between the rays AEBQ and AP From ∆ANB
AN
Sini =
𝐴𝐵

then , AN = ABsini ------(3A)

from fig AM =MB and AB = AM+MB

as AM =MB, AB = AM+MB = 2AM

then eqn (3A) becomes AN = 2AMsini----(4)

To find AM

From ∆AME
AM
tanr =
𝑀𝐸
. AM = ME tanr
The path difference, ∆ = µ(AE+EB)-AN-------->(1) AM = t*tanr ---------(5) (whereME = t,thickness of film)
29 30

Applying Snell’s law at point A (in fig) λ 2𝑛𝜆+𝜆

2µtcosr = nλ + =
2 2
sini
=µ
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑟

sini = µsinr-----(6) Or
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑟 (2𝑛+1)𝜆
substituting eqn(5) and eqn(6) in eqn(4) and using tanr = we get ∆ = 2µtcosr = -------(12) –
𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑟 2
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑟 Eqn(12) represent the condition for constructive interference in thin film .
AN = 2µt *sinr
𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑟

𝑠𝑖𝑛2 𝑟
ie AN = 2µt ----(7)
𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑟

substituting eqn(3) and eqn(7) in eqn(2) we get

The path difference, between the rays AEBQ and AP is given by Condition For Destructive Interference(film appear dark)

Path difference,
∆=2µtcosr------(8)
λ (2𝑛−1)𝜆
,∆=2µtcosr- =
This is known as cosine law. 2 2
(2𝑛−1)𝜆 λ 2𝑛𝜆−1𝜆 λ 2𝑛𝜆 𝜆 λ
Due to denser reflection ray AN travels an additional path of
λ 2µtcosr= + = + = − +
2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2

Or ∆=2µtcosr = nλ------(13)
Therefore eqn(8) becomes Eqn(13) represent the condition for destructive interference in thin film .
λ
,∆=2µtcosr- ------(9)
2
COLOURS IN THIN FILM
The above equation represents the optical path difference, between the rays AEBQ
and AP. We know that for thin films the condition for destructive interference is given by
2μtcosr = nλ
Condition For Constructive Interference(film appears bright)
The wavelength of light satisfying the above condition will be absent in the
Path difference,
reflected light from the thin film and a mixture of remaining colours will be seen at
λ the point. If red satisfies the above condition the film will appear blue-violet in
,∆=2µtcosr - = nλ
2

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colour, if blue satisfies the above condition the film will appear red in color and if
green satisfies the above condition film will appear deep purple in colour.
EXTREMLY THICK AND THIN FILMS
In thin film interference , we have the expression for path difference between the
reflected rays , .. ∆=2µtcosr- λ/2
If the thickness of the film is extremely small (t0) the path difference between
the reflected rays is λ/2 which favours destructive interference and the film
appears dark.
If the thickness is large then almost all reflected light rays (colours) will undergo
constructive interference which results in white light and film appears white
NEWTON’S RINGS
2) Obtain the expression for diameter of bright and dark ring in Newton’s ring
experiment. Also obtain the expression for wavelength and refractive index
using Newton’s ring experiment setup
OR
Explain the formation of Newton’s rings. Also with necessary theory explain
the experimental procedure to find the expression for wavelength and
refractive index using Newton’s ring experiment setup
OR
Explain how Newton’s rings are formed? Show that the radius of dark ring
formed by Newton’s rings is proportional to square root of the order of the
ring.
Ans:

The experiment setup for observing Newton’s ring pattern is shown in fig1.
The light from a monochromatic source is made parallel using a
converging lens and using a glass plate inclined at 450 ,these parallel light rays are
made to fall normally on an air film formed between a plano-convex lens L and a
glass plate G. The light reflected from the top and bottom surface of the air film
produce interference pattern in the form of concentric rings called Newton’s rings.
 The reason for ring shaped interference pattern is that ,in the air film
the locus of all points having same thickness falls on a circle.

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 Due to denser reflection the center of ring system will always be dark. AC*CB =( DO-CO )*CO -------(1)
from fig DC = DO-CO
Theory DO =2R, CO = t,
Hence DC = DO-CO = 2R –t
Therefore eqn (1) can be written as
also AC=CB = rn

Therefore eqn (1) can be written as

rn2 =2Rt – t2 -------(2)

since 2Rt >> t2 , we can neglect t2 ,then eqn(2) can be written

as
𝑟𝑛2
2t = -------(3)
𝑅

Expression for diameter of nth bright ring(constructive interference)

We know that the condition for constructive interference or bright ring is given by
(2𝑛+1)𝜆
2µtcosr =
2

For normal incidence , cosr=1and for air film µ = 1,therefore above eqn becomes
(2𝑛+1)𝜆
2t = ------ (4)
2

Compairing eqn(3) with eqn (4) we get

In the above fig, LOL’ is the Plano convex lens whose radius of curvature
is R and it is placed over a glass plate G. Let t be the thickness of the air film 𝑟𝑛2 (2𝑛+1)𝜆
=
corresponding to nth ring having radius rn. 𝑅 2
From the property of circle(intersecting chord theorem) we have
then radius of nth bright ring as
AC*CB = DC*CO
(2𝑛+1)𝜆
rn2 =R
2

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If Dn is the diameter of nth bright ring 2
𝐷𝑛
rn2 = = Rnλ
2 4
𝐷𝑛 (2𝑛+1)𝜆
Then rn2 = =R then diameter of nth dark ring is given by
4 2

then diameter of nth bright ring is given by Dn2 = 4𝑅𝑛𝜆 -----(9)

Or Dn = √4𝑅𝑛𝜆 -----(9A)
2𝑅(2𝑛+1)𝜆
Dn2 = -------(5)
Expression for wavelength of monochromatic light using Newton’s ring
Or Dn = √2𝑅(2𝑛 + 1)𝜆 ------(5A) arrangement

Let Dm and Dn be the diameter of mth and nth dark ring respectively. Then from
equation (9) we have
Expression for diameter of nth dark ring(destructive interference)
Dn2 = 4Rnλ ------(10)

Dm2 = 4Rmλ-------(11) (m>n)

We know that the condition for destructive interference or dark ring is given by

2µtcosr =nλ-------(6)
Then subtraction eqn(10) from eqn(11) we get
For normal incidence cosr=1 and for air film µ = 1,therefore above eqn becomes
Dm2 – Dn2 =4Rλ(m-n)------(12)
2t =nλ--------(7)
2 – 𝐷𝑛2 )
(𝐷𝑚
Comparing eqn(7) with eqn (3) we get Then wavelength , λ = --------(13)
4𝑅(𝑚−𝑛)
we get

𝑟𝑛2
= nλ Expression for refractive index of a material using Newton’s ring setup
𝑅
then
Let Dm and Dn be the diameter of mth and nth dark ring respectively with air film
rn2 = Rnλ ------(8)
between plano convex lens and glass plate.Then we have from eqn(12)
If Dn is the diameter of nth dark ring
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Dm2 – Dn2 =4Rλ(m-n)-----(14)

If we replace the air film with water of refractive index µ and the corresponding
diameters of mth and nth dark ring be dm and dn respectively
Consider a wedge shaped air film formed between two glass plates G1and
Then using eqn (12) G2 as shown in the figure. Let the angle of air wedge be θ, x be the length
of wedge and t is the thickness of the film at B . The light from
4Rλ(m−n)
dm2 – dn2 = -------(15) a monochromatic source is made parallel using a converging lens and using a glass
µ
plate inclined at 450 ,these parallel light rays are made to fall normally on the
dividing eqn(14) with eqn(15) we get wedge shaped air film . The light reflected from the top and bottom surface
of air film interfere and produce interference pattern consisting of straight
(𝐷𝑚2 – 𝐷𝑛
2)
line fringes or fringes of equal thickness.
µ = 2 – 𝑑2 ) ------(16)
(𝑑𝑚 𝑛
 In Air wedge set up the interference pattern contain straight line
the above expression shows that the diameter of the ring will shrinks if we replace fringes, because the locus of all points having same thickness falls on
air film with a medium of higher refractive index like a liquid. a straight line.

For thin film interference the condition for getting dark band is given by
2µ tcosr =nλ

AIR WEDGE For normal incidence , cosr=1,therefore above eqn becomes

3) With necessary theory write the formation of interference pattern in an air ,2µ t=nλ -----(1)
wedge and also derive the expression for the bandwidth. Also with necessary From fig, t=xtanθ-----(2)
theory explain the experimental procedure to find the diameter of a thin wire
using air wedge setup. Substituting eqn(2) in eqn(1) we get

Ans: 2µxtanθ = nλ,

nλ
Or x= -----(3)
2µtanθ

Let x n and x (n+m) are the distance of n th and (n+m) th dark band and using
eqn(3)
xm+n −xn
The fringe width,β =
m

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 nλ (n+m)λ
−
2µtanθ 2µtanθ
β=
m
nλ nλ mλ An air wedge is formed by keeping two glass plates in contact at one end and a thin
− −
2µtanθ 2µtanθ 2µtanθ
β = wire at the other end. On illuminating the air wedge with a monochromatic
m
light source of wavelength λ , we get interference fringes of equal
mλ thickness which can be observed using travelling microscope.
2µtanθ
β =
m If d is the diameter of the wire,µ is the refractive index of film ,
mλ λ is the wavelength of light used, θ is the angle of wedge and L is
β =
m2µtanθ the length of the wedge then we have the expression for bandwidth

λ λ
ie β = ----(4). β= -------(6)
2µtanθ 2µtanθ

For air film µ =1 ,

λ From ∆ABC (of above fig) ,

Therefore fringe width , β = .------(5)
2tanθ
d
tanθ = ------(7)
L

Determination of diameter of a thin wire using air wedge setup Substituting eqn (7) in eqn (6) we get
λL
β=
2µd

then diameter of the wire is given by the expression

λL
d= -------(8),
2µβ

For air film µ =1 ,then eqn(8) becomes

λL
d= ------(9)
2β

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EXPERIMENT SETUP (Determination of diameter of a thin wire using air

wedge setup)

Testing of planeness of surfaces using air wedge setup

Using a travelling microscope (M), n t h and (n+m) th dark band reading is
noted as x n and x (n+m) respectively. The fringe width is given by
With the test glass plate and an optically plane glass plate, an air wedge is formed.
It is then illuminated with normally incident parallel beam of light and the fringes
formed are observed. If the fringes are straight line fringes or have equal thickness
and orderly placed then the test glass plate is plane and If the fringes are of un
equal thickness or not straight then the test glass plate is not plane.

xm+n −xn
β=
m
The by adjusting the horizontal screw of travelling microscope length of
the wedge is calculated from L = R2-R1,where R1 and R2 are the reading
corresponding to the two edges of the wedge in the microscope scale.

The diameter of the wire is calculated using the equation

λL
d=
2β

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