Chapter 10 (Wave Optics) Solved

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CBSE 12th Physics

Chapter 10 (Wave Optics)
Important Solved Questions
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CBSE 12th Physics
Solved Important Questions
Chapter 10
1 Mark Questions:
Q.1. How would the angular separation of interference fringes in young’s double slit
experiment change when the distance between the slits and screen is doubled?
𝜆D
Ans. Fringe width (𝛽) is given by, 𝛽= 𝑑
When D is doubles
2𝜆
∴ 𝛽1 = = 2𝛽
𝑑
Fringe width becomes twice.
Q.2. How does the angular separation between fringes in single-slit diffraction
experiment change when the distance of separation between the slit and screen is
doubled?
2𝜆 1
Ans. The angular width of central diffraction band = 𝛼 , when slit width is doubled the
𝑎 𝑎
width of central band becomes half of the initial values. As intensity of central maximum
𝛼𝑎2 , if slit width is doubled, the intensity become four times.
Q.3. How does the fringe width of interference fringes change, when the whole
apparatus of young’s experiment is kept in a liquid of refractive index 1.3?
Ans. The fringe width 𝛽 in a young’s double slit experiment is given by
𝜆𝐷
𝛽=
𝑑
When the whole apparatus is placed in a liquid of refractive index 1.3, the fringe width is not
effected.
Q.4. What type of wave front will emerge from a (i) point source, and (ii) distant light
source?
Ans. (i) Spherical wave front emerges from a point source.
(ii) Plane wave front emerges from a distant light source.
Q.5. A glass lens of refractive index 1.45 disappears when immersed in a liquid. What is
the value of refractive index of the liquid?
Ans. The value of refractive index of the liquid is 1.45.
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Q.6. When monochromatic light travels from one medium to another its wavelength
changes but frequency remains the same, Explain.
Ans. When light travels between medium, the wavelength must change by the same
proportion as the speed of light.
Where the speed of light in a medium is calculated independently by knowing the electric
permittivity and the magnetic permeability of medium.
2 Mark Questions:
Q.7. State one by which the phenomenon of interference can be distinguished from that
of diffraction.
A parallel beam of light of wavelength 600 nm is incident normally con a slit ‘a’. If the
distance between the slits and the screen is 0.8 m and the distance of 𝟐𝒏𝒅 order
maximum from the center of the screen is 15 mm, calculate the width of the slit.
Ans. Difference between interference and diffraction: Interference is due to superposition
of two distinct waves coming from two coherent sources and diffraction is produced as a
result of superposition of the secondary wavelets coming from different parts of the same
wave front.
Given: 𝜆 = 600 𝑛𝑚 = 6 × 10−7
D = 0.8m, 𝛾 2 = 15 × 10−3 𝑚
To calculate: width of the slit ‘d’
5 𝜆𝐷
Calculations: 𝛾 2 = ×
2 𝑑
5 6 × 10−7 × 0.8
⇒ 𝑑= ×
2 15×10−3
∴ Distance, 𝑑 = 8 × 10−5 = 80 𝜇𝑚.
Q.8. Define the term ’linearly polarized light’.

When does the intensity of transmitted light become maximum, when a polaroid sheet is
rotated between two crossed polaroid’s’’?
Ans. Linearly Polarized Light: The light in which the vibrations of the light are restricted in
a particular plane is called plane or linearly polarized light.
According to law of Malus,
𝐼 = 𝐼0 𝑐𝑜𝑠 2 𝜃
The intensity of light transmitted from the analyzer will be maximum when 𝜃 = 𝜃 0 𝑖. 𝑒. when
polarizer and analyzer are parallel.

3 Mark Questions:
Q.9. Distinguish between unpolished and plane polarized light. An unpolished light is
incident on the boundary between two transparent media. State the condition when the
reflected wave is totally plane polarized find out the expression for the angle of
incidence in this case.
Ans. The independent light waves whose planes of vibrations are randomly oriented about
the direction of propagation is said to be polarized
When the light waves transmit only one component parallel to a special axis. Then the
resulting light is called plane polarized or linearly polarized light.
When reflected wave is perpendicular to the refracted wave, the reflected wave is totally
polarized wave. The angle of incidence in this case is called Brewster’s angle and is donated
by 𝑖𝐵 .
The relation between incidence angle 𝑖𝐵 is given by 𝜇 = 𝑡𝑎𝑛 𝑖𝐵
Q.10. In Young’s double slit experiment, monochromatic light of wavelength 630 nm

illuminates pair of slits and produces interference pattern in which two consecutive
bright fringes are separated by 8. 1 mm. Another source of monochromatic light
produces the interference pattern in which the two consecutive bright fringes are
separated by 7. 2mm. Find the wavelength of light from the second source.
What is the effect on the interference fringes if the monochromatic source is replaced by
a source of white light?
Ans. Here, 𝜆1 = 630 𝑛𝑚 = 630 × 10−9 𝑚, 𝛽1 = 8.1 𝑚𝑚 = 8.1 × 10−3 𝑚
𝜆2 =? , 𝛽2 = 7.2 𝑚𝑚 = 7.2 × 10−3 𝑚
Let d be the slit width and D be the distance between slit and screen then
𝜆1 𝐷 𝜆2 𝐷
𝛽1 = and 𝛽2 =
𝑑 𝑑
𝛽1 𝜆1 𝐷 𝑑 𝜆1
∴ = × =
𝛽2 𝑑 𝜆2 𝐷 𝜆2
8.1 × 10−3 630 × 10−9

=
7.2 × 10−3 𝜆2
8.1 630 × 10−9
=
7.2 𝜆2
7.2 × 630 × 10−9
∴ 𝜆2 =
8.1
= 560 × 10−9 𝑚 = 560nm.

When the monochromatic source is replaced by a source of white light, the fringe width is
changed.

Q.11. In young’s double slit experiment, the two slits 0.15 mm apart are illuminated by
chromatic light of wavelength 450 nm. The screen is 1.0 m away from the slits.
(a) Find the distance of the second (i) bright fringe, (ii) dark from the central maximum.
(b) How will the fringe pattern change if the screen is moved away from the slits?
Ans. Here,
𝑑 = 0.15 mm = 0.15 × 10−3 𝑚
= 15 × 10−5 𝑚
𝜆 = 450nm = 450 × 10−9 𝑚
= 4.5 × 10−7 𝑚, 𝐷 = 1.0𝑚

(a) (i) Distance of the second bright fringe
2𝜆𝐷 𝑛𝜆𝐷
𝑥2 = [∵ 𝑥𝑛 = ]
D d
2 × 4.5 × 10−7 × 1.0
=
15 × 10−5
2 × 4.5
= × 10−2 = 0.6 × 10−2 𝑚 = 6mm
15
(ii) Distance of the second dark fringe
3𝜆𝐷 (2𝑛 − 1)𝜆𝐷

𝑥2 = [∵ 𝑥𝑛 = ]
2d 2d
3 × 4.5 × 10−7 × 1.0 3 × 4.5

= = × 10−2
2 × 15 × 10−5 30
0.45 × 10−2 m = 4mm
𝜆𝐷
(b) Since fringe width 𝛽 = 𝑑
When screen is moved away, D increases, therefore width of the fringes increases but the
angular separation (𝜆/𝐷) remains the same.
Q.12. How does polarized light get polarized when passed through a polaroid? Two
polaroid are set in crossed positions. A polaroid is placed between the two making an
angle with the pass axis of the first polaroid. Write the expression for the intensity of
light transmitted from the second polaroid. In what orientations will the transmitted
intensity be (i) minimum and (ii) maximum?
Ans. If a polarized light wave is incident on such a polaroid, then the light waves get linearly
polarizes with the electric vector oscillating along a direction perpendicular to the aligned
molecules.
If the light from an ordinary source (like a sodium lamp) passes through a polaroid sheet 𝑃1 ,
it is observed that its intensity is reduced by half. Rotating 𝑃1 has no effect on the transmitted
beam and transmitted intensity remains constant.

Let an identical piece of polaroid 𝑃2 be placed before 𝑃1 , the light from the lamp is reduced
in intensity on passing through 𝑃2 alone. But rotating 𝑃1 has effect on the light coming from
𝑃2 .
In one position, the intensity transmitted by 𝑃2 followed by 𝑃1 is nearly zero. When turned by
900 from this position, 𝑃1 transmits nearly the full intensity emerging from 𝑃2 as shown in
fig.
Graph: The graph between intensity of light and the angle between polarizer and analyzer is
shown as:
When the polaroid is rotated in the path of plane polarized light, its intensity will vary from
maximum (when the vibrations of the plane polarized light are parallel to the axis of the
polaroid) to minimum (when the direction of vibrations becomes perpendicular to the axis of
the crystal).
Let 𝐼0 be the intensity of polarized light after passing through first polarizer 𝑃1 . then intensity
of light after passing through second polarizer 𝑃2 is given by 𝐼 = 𝐼0 𝑐𝑜𝑠 2 𝜃 .
Q.13. The velocity of a certain monochromatic light, in a given transparent medium

𝟐. 𝟐𝟓 × 𝟏𝟎𝟖 𝒎/𝒔. What is the (a) critical angle of incidence, (b) polarizing angle for this
medium?
Ans. Here, 𝑣 = 2.25 × 108 𝑚/𝑠

Speed of light in vacuum, 𝑐 = 3 × 108 𝑚/𝑠
𝑐 3 × 108
𝜇= = lim = 1.33 .
𝑉 2.25 × 108 𝛿×⟶0

(a) If c is the critical angle, then

1
𝜇=
Sin 𝐶
1
1.33 =
𝑆𝑖𝑛 𝐶
1
𝑆𝑖𝑛 𝐶 = = 0.75
1.33
𝐶 = 𝑆𝑖𝑛−1 (0.75)
(b) If 𝑖𝛽 is the polarizing angle
Then, tan 𝑖𝛽 = 𝜇
𝑡𝑎𝑛 𝑖𝛽 = 1.33 = tan 53. 06𝑜 ⇒ 𝑖𝛽 = 53. 06𝑜 .
Q.14. (a) What is linearly polarized light? Describe briefly using a diagram how
sunlight is polarized.
(b) Unpolarised light is incident on a polaroid. How would the intensity of transmitted
light change? when the polaroid is rotated?
Ans. (a) Natural light is polarized i.e., the electric vector takes all possible directions in the
transverse plane, rapidly and randomly, during a measurement. A polarizer transmits only one
component. This resulting light is called liner or plane polarized.
The incident sunlight is polarized. The dot and double arrows show the polarization in the
perpendicular and in the plane of the figure. Under the influence of the electric field of the
incident wave, the electrons in the molecules of the atmosphere acquire components of motion
in both these directions. An observer looking at 900 to the direction of the sun, the charges
accelerating parallel to the double arrows do not radiate energy towards this observer since
their accretion has no transverse component.

The radiation scattered by the molecule is therefore represented by dots. It is linearly polarized
perpendicular to the plane of the figure.
(𝒃) If the unipolar light is incident on a polaroid, the intensity is reduced by half. Even if the
1
polaroid is rotated by angle 𝜃 the average over 𝐶𝑜𝑠 2 𝜃 = 2. Thus from Malus’ law: I = I0 Cos2 𝜃
Or
I = I0 Cos2 𝜃
I0
= I0 (Cos2 𝜃) =
2
Thus, the intensity of the transmitted light remains unchanged when the polaroid is rotated.
Q.15. (a) Using the phenomenon of polarization, show, how transverse nature of light
can be demonstrated.
(b) Two polaroid 𝐏𝟏 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝟐 are placed with their pass axes perpendicular to each other.
Un-polarized light of intensity 10 is incident on 𝐏𝟏 . A third polaroid 𝐏𝟑 is kept in
between 𝐏𝟏 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝟐 such that its pass axis makes an angle of 300 with that of 𝐏𝟏 .
Determine the intensity transmitted through 𝐏𝟏 , 𝐏𝟐 and 𝐏𝟑 .
Ans. (a) Polaroid: It is a material which polarizes light
Light waves are transverse in nature and the electric field associated with a propagating light
wave is always at 900 right angles to the direction of propagation of the waves. If a light
wave is incident on the polaroid, the electric vectors along the direction of the aligned
molecules get absorbed. The light wave gets lineally polarized with the electric vector
oscillating along a direction perpendicular if an un-polarized light wave.
I0
(b) I1 = 2
I3 = I1 cos 2 30
3 𝐼0 3 3
= I1 × = ( ) × ( ) = I0
4 2 4 8
I2 = I𝟑 cos 𝟐 60
3 1 3
= ( I0 ) × = I
8 4 32 0
[θ = 900 − 300 = 60𝟎 ]

Q.16. How is a wave front defined? Using Huygens’s construction draw a figure
showing the propagation of a plane wave refracting at a plane surface separating two
media. Hence verify smell’s law of refraction.
Ans.(i) Wave front: The continuous locus of all the particles of a medium, which are
vibrating in the same phase is called a wave front.
(ii) Snell’s law of refraction: Let PP’ represent the surface separating medium 1 and
medium 2 as shown in fig.
Let V1 and V2 represents the speed of light in medium 1 and medium 2 respectively. We
assume a plane wave front AB propagating in the direction A’A incident on the interface at
an angle i. Let t be the time taken by the wave front to travel the distance BC.
∴ BC = 𝑣1 𝑡 [distance = speed ×time]
In order to determine the shape of the refracted wave front, we draw a sphere of radius 𝑣2 𝑡
from the point A in the second medium (the speed of the wave in second medium is 𝑣2 ).
Let CE Represent a tangent plane drawn from the point C. Then
AE = 𝑣2 𝑡
∴ CE would represent the refracted wave front.
In ∆ABC and ∆AEC, We have

𝐵𝐶 𝑣1 𝑡
sin i = =
𝐴𝐶 𝐴𝐶
𝐴𝐸 𝑣2 𝑡
and sin r = =
𝐴𝐶 𝐴𝐶
Where i and r are the angles of incident and refraction respectively.
sin 𝑖 𝑣1 𝑡 𝐴𝐶
∴ = .
sin 𝑟 𝐴𝐶 𝑣2 𝑡
sin 𝑖 𝑣1
=
sin 𝑟 𝑣2
If C represents the speed of light in vacuum, then
𝐶 𝐶
𝑛1 = 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑛2 =
𝑣1 𝑣2
𝐶 𝐶
⇒ 𝑣1 = 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑣2 =
𝑛1 𝑛2
When 𝑛1 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑛2 are the refractive indices of medium 1 and medium 2
sin 𝑖 𝑐/𝑛1 sin 𝑖 𝑛2
∴ = ⇒ = ⇒ 𝑛1 sin 𝑖 = 𝑛2 sin 𝑟
sin 𝑟 𝑐/𝑛2 sin 𝑟 𝑛1
This is the Snell’s law of refraction.
Q.17. In a single slit diffraction experiment, when a tiny circular obstacle is placed in
the path of light from a distant source, a bright spot is seen at the Centre of the shadow
of the obstacle. Explain why?
State two points of difference between the interference pattern obtained in Young's
double slit experiment and the diffraction pattern due to a single slit.
Ans. The bright spot is due to constructive interference of waves diffracted from the edge of
the circular obstacle.
Difference between interference and diffraction.
Interference pattern Diffraction pattern
1. All bright fringes are equally bright. The brightness of successive bright fringes
from the center goes on decreasing.
2. Dark fringes are completely dark. Dark fringes are not completely dark.
3. Fringe width is same for bright and dark. Fringe width of central maximum is twice of
other secondary fringes.

Q.18. Describe Young's double slit experiment to produce interference pattern due to a
monochromatic source of light. Deduce the expression for the fringe width.
Ans. Simplest experiment to show interference of light is Young's double slit experiment: 𝛿
is a narrow slit (of width about 1 mm) illuminated by a monochromatic source of light. At a
suitable distance (≈ 10 mm) from 𝛿, two slits S1 and S2 are placed parallel to S. When a
screen is placed at a large distance (about 2m) from the slit S1 and S2 , alternate dark and
bright bands appear on the screen. These are the interference bands or fringes. the band
disappear when either slit is covered.
Explanation: According to Huygens principle, the monochromatic source of light

illuminating the slit S tends out spherical wave front.
The two waves of same amplitude and same frequency super impose on each other.
Dark fringes appear on the screen when the crest of one wave falls on the trough of other and
they neutralize the effect of each other.
Bright fringes appear on the screen when the crest of one wave coincides with the crest of
other and they reinforce each other.
Expression for the fringe width:

Let d = distance between slits S1 and S2
D = distance of screen from two slits
and x = distance between the central maxima O and observation point P.
Light waves spread out from S and fall on both S1 and S2 . The spherical waves emanating
from S1 and S2 will produce interference fringes on the screen MN.
In rt ∆ S1 AP, we have
(S1 P)2 = (S1 A)2 + (AP)2
𝑑 2
𝑑 2 (𝑥− )
S1 P = √D2 + (𝑥 − ) = √D2 [1 + 2
]
2 𝐷2

1
𝑑 2 2
(𝑥− )
2
S1 P = [1 + ]
𝐷2
By Binomial Theorem and neglecting higher terms, we have
𝑑 2 d 2
1 (𝑥− 2 ) (x− )
2
𝑆1 𝑃 = D [1 + ]=D+
2 𝐷2 2D
Similarly
d 2
(x+ )
2
S2 P = 𝐷 + 2D
Hence path difference = S2 P − S1 P
d 2 d 2
(x + 2) (x − 2) 1 𝑑2 𝑑2
=𝐷+ − 𝐷− = [𝑥 2 + + 𝑥𝑑 − 𝑥 2 − + 𝑥𝑑 ]
2D 2D 2𝐷 4 4
1 xd
= . 2xd =
2𝐷 D
Now the intensity at point P is maximum according as the path difference in an integral
multiple of wavelength or an odd integral multiple of half wavelength.
(i) For bright fringe (constructive interference): We will have constructive interference
resulting in a bright fringe when path difference = n𝜆
xd n𝜆𝐷
= n𝜆 ⟹ x =
D 𝑑
n𝜆𝐷
𝑥𝑛 = ,
𝑑
Where n= 0, ±1, ±2….
Since the separation between the centers of two consecutive bright fringes is called fringe
width. It is denoted by ß.
∴ Fringe width, ß = 𝑥𝑛+1 - 𝑥𝑛
(𝑛 + 1)𝜆𝐷 𝑛𝜆𝐷 𝜆𝐷
ß = − = (n + 1 − n)
𝑑 𝑑 𝑑
𝜆𝐷
ß= 𝑑

(ii) For Dark fringe (destructive interference): We will have destructive interference
resulting in a dark fringe when path difference
𝜆
= (2n + 1)
2
𝑥𝑑 𝜆
= (2𝑛 + 1)
𝐷 2
(2𝑛 + 1)𝜆𝐷
⟹ x =
2𝑑
(2𝑛 + 1)𝜆𝐷
∴ 𝑥𝑛 = ,
2𝑑
Where n= 0, ±1, ±2….
Fringe Width ß = 𝑥𝑛+1 − 𝑥𝑛
[(2𝑛 + 1) + 1]𝜆𝐷 (2𝑛 + 1)𝜆𝐷 𝜆𝐷 2𝜆𝐷

= − = (2𝑛 + 2 + 1 − 2𝑛 − 1) =
2𝑑 2𝑑 2𝑑 2𝑑
𝜆𝐷
∴ ß =
𝑑
Hence all bright and dark fringes are of equal width.
Observation:
(i) Fringe width is directly proportional to the wavelength of light. i.e. ß 𝛼 𝜆.

1
(ii) Fringe width is inversely proportional to the distance between two sources. i.e. ß 𝛼 𝑑.
(iii) Fringe width is directly proportional to the distance between screen and two sources. i.e.
ß 𝛼 𝐷.
Q.19. (a) Describe briefly, with the help of suitable diagram, how the transverse nature
of light can be demonstrated by the phenomenon of polarization.
(b) When polarized light passes from air to a transparent medium, under what
condition does the reflected light get polarized?
Ans.(a) Polarization: The dots and arrow indicates that both polarization is present in the
incident and refracted waves. Incident Only transverse wave can be polarized and the
transverse nature of light can be demonstrated by the polarization. Light can be polarized by
reflecting it from a transparent medium. The extend of polarization depend on the angle of
incident. At a particular angle of incidence, called Brewster angle.
(b) Polarized light: The independent light waves whose planes of vibrations are randomly
oriented about the direction of propagation are said to be polarized light.

Q.20. (a) Why are coherent sources necessary to produce a sustained interference
pattern?
(b) In Young's double slit experiment using monochromatic light of wavelength 𝝀, the
intensity of light at a point on the screen where path difference is 𝝀, is K units. Find out
the intensity of light at a point where path difference is 𝝀⁄𝟑.
Ans. (a) Coherent sources have constant phase difference between, 𝑖. 𝑒., phase difference
does not change with time. Hence, the intensity distribution on the screen remains constant
and sustained.
𝜙
𝐼 = 4𝐼0 𝑐𝑜𝑠 2 … (𝑖)
2
𝐼0 ⟶ incident intensity
𝐼 ⟶ resultant intensity
At a point where, path difference = 𝜆
2𝜋
𝜙= × 𝜆 = 2𝜋
𝜆
Putting in … (𝑖)
𝐾 = 4 𝐼0 𝑐𝑜𝑠 2 𝜋
𝐾 = 4𝐼0
𝐾
𝐼0 =
4
𝜆
At a point where, path difference is 3 .
2𝜋 2𝜋 𝜋 2𝜋
𝜙= Δ𝑥 = =
𝜆 𝜆 3 3
𝜙 𝐾 𝜋 𝐾 1 𝐾
𝐼2 = 4𝐼0 𝑐𝑜𝑠 2 = 4 ( ) 𝑐𝑜𝑠 2 = 4 × =
2 4 3 4 4 4
Q.21. Use Huygens's principle to explain the formation of diffraction pattern due to a
single slit illuminated by a monochromatic source of light.
When the width of the slit is made double the original width, how would this affect the
size and intensity of the central diffraction band?

Ans. Let AB be a slit of width 'a' and a parallel beam of monochromatic light is incident on it.
According to Huygens’s principle the diffraction pattern is the result of superposition of a
large number of waves, starting from different points of illuminated slit.
At the central point C of the screen, the angle 𝜃 is zero. Hence the waves starting from all
points of slit arrive in the same phase. This gives maximum intensity at the central point C.
The observation point as now taken at P.
𝑎
Minima: Now we divide the slit into two equal haves AO and 0B, each of width 2. Now for
𝑎
every point, 𝑀1 in AO, there is a corresponding point 𝑀2 in 0B, such that 𝑀1 𝑀2 = 2;then
path difference between waves arriving at P and starting from 𝑀1 and 𝑀2 will be
𝑎 𝜆
sin 𝜃 =
2 2
𝑎 sin 𝜃 = 𝜆
In general,
𝑎 sin 𝜃 = 𝑛𝜆
Secondary maxima: Similarly, it can be shown that for maxima
1
𝑎 sin 𝜃 = (𝑛 + ) 𝜆
2
The intensity pattern on the screen is shown in the given figure.

When the width of the slit is made double the original width, the size reduces by half
according to the relation: size – 𝜆/𝑑. Intensity increases four fold.
Q.22. (a) In what way is diffraction from each slit related to the interference pattern in a
double slit experiment?
(b) Two wavelength of sodium light 590 nm and 596 nm are used, in turn, to study the
diffraction taking place at a single slit of aperture 𝟐 × 𝟏𝟎−𝟒 𝒎.The distance between the
slit
and the screen is 1.5.m. Calculate the separation between the positions of the first
maxima
of the diffraction pattern obtained in the two cases.
Ans. (a). If the width of each slit is comparable to the wavelength of light used, the
interference pattern thus obtained in the double-slit experiment is modified by diffraction
from each of two slits.
(b). Given that: Wavelength of the light beam
𝜆1 = 590𝑛𝑚 = 5.9 × 10−7 𝑚

Wavelength of another light beam,
𝜆2 = 596𝑛𝑚 = 5.96 × 10−7 𝑚

Distance of the slits from the screen = D = 1.5m
Distance of the two slits = a = 2 × 10−4 𝑚

For the first secondary maxima
3𝜆1 𝑥1
sin 𝜃 = =
2𝑎 𝐷
3𝜆1 𝐷 3𝜆2 𝐷
𝑥1 = 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑥1 =
2𝑎 2𝑎
∴ Spacing between the positions of first secondary maxima of two sodium lines
3𝐷
𝑥1 − 𝑥2 = (𝜆1 − 𝜆2 ) = 6.75 × 10−5 𝑚.
2𝑎
Q.16. (a) If one of two identical slits producing interference in Young’s experiment is
covered with glass, so that the light intensity passing through it is reduced to 50%, find
the ratio of the maximum and minimum intensity of the fringe in the interference
pattern.
Ans. (a) After the introduction of the glass sheet (say, on the second slit), we have
𝐼2 1
= 50% =
𝐼1 2

∴ Ratio of the amplitudes
𝑎2 1 1
= =√ =
𝑎1 2 √2
𝐼𝑚𝑎𝑥 𝑎1 + 𝑎2 2
Hence, =( )
𝐼𝑚𝑖𝑛 𝑎1 − 𝑎2
1 2
1+
=( √2)
1
1−
√2
2
√2 + 1
=( )
√2 − 1
(≃ 𝟑𝟒)
(b) What kind of fringes do you expect to observe if white light is used instead of
monochromatic light?
Ans. The central fringe remains white. No clear fringe pattern is seen after a few (colored)
fringes on either side of the central fringe.
5 Marks Questions:
Q.17. (a) What are coherent sources of light? Two slits in Young’s double slit
experiment are illuminated by two different sodium emitting light of the same
wavelength. Why is no interference pattern observed?
(b) Obtain the condition for getting dark and bright fringes in Young’s experiment.
Hence write the expression for the fringe width.
(c) If s is the size of the source and its distance from the plane of the two slits, what
should be the interference fringe to be seen?
Ans. (a) Coherent sources of light: The sources of light, which emit continuous light waves
of the same wavelength, same frequency and in same phase are called coherent sources of
light. Interface pattern is not obtained. This is because phase difference between the light
waves emitted from two different sodium lamps will change continuously.
(b) For bright fringes (maxima),

𝑥𝑑
Path difference, = 𝑛𝜆
𝐷
𝐷
∴ 𝑥 = 𝑛𝜆 , where n = 0,1,2,3, ….
𝑑
For dark fringes (minima),

𝑥𝑑 𝜆
Path difference, = (2𝑛 − 1) 2
𝐷

𝜆 𝐷
∴ 𝑥 = (2𝑛 − 1) , 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒 𝑛 = 0,1,2,3 ….
2 𝑑
The separation between the center of two consecutive bright fringes is the width of a dark
fringe.
∴ Fringe width 𝑃 = 𝑥𝑛 − 𝑥𝑛−1

𝜆𝐷 𝜆𝐷
𝛽=𝑛 − (𝑛 − 1)
𝑑 𝑑
𝜆𝐷
𝛽=
𝑑
𝑑𝜙 𝑑
(c) the condition for interference fringes to be is = − 𝑑𝑡
𝑑𝑡
𝑠 𝜆
For Interference fringes to be seen the condition 𝑎 < should be satisfied.
𝑑
Q.18. State the importance of coherent sources in the phenomenon of interference. In

Young's double slit experiment to produce interference pattern, obtain the conditions
for constructive and destructive interference. Hence deduce the expression for the
fringe width. How does the fringe width get affected, if the entire experimental
apparatus of Young is immersed in water?
Ans. Two sources are called coherent sources, if the phase difference between them is either
zero or constant. And this is essential condition for obtaining sustained interference pattern.
For any other incoherent source of light steady interference pattern can never be obtained,
even if the sources emit waves of equal wavelength and equal amplitudes. This is because the
waves emitted by a source undergo rapid and irregular changes of phase, so that the intensity
at any point is never constant. Naturally the phase difference between the waves emitted by
the two sources cannot remain constant.
The waves interfering at P have different distances 𝑆1 𝑃 = 𝑥 and 𝑆2 𝑃 = 𝑥 + Δ𝑥.
So, for the two sources 𝑆1and 𝑆2 we can respectively write,

𝐼1 = 𝐼01 sin(𝑘𝑥 − 𝓌𝑡)
𝐼1 = 𝐼02 sin(𝑘(𝑥 + Δ𝑥) − 𝓌𝑡)

𝛿 − 𝐼02 sin(𝑘𝑥 − 𝓌𝑡 + 𝛿)
𝛿 = 𝑘Δ𝑥 = (2𝜋/𝜆) × Δ𝑥
The resultant can be written as,
𝐼 = 𝐼0 sin(𝑘𝑥 − 𝓌𝑡 + ℇ)
Where,
𝐼02 = 𝐼01
2 2
+ 𝐼02 + 2𝐼01 𝐼02 cos 𝛿
And, tan 𝜀 = 𝐼02 sin 𝛿 /(𝐼01 + 𝐼02 cos 𝛿)
The condition for constructive (bright fringe) and destructive (dark fringe) interference are as
follows:
𝛿 = 2𝑛𝜋 for bright fringes
𝛿 = (2𝑛 + 1)𝜋for dark fringes
Where n is an integer.
Now to find the fringe width.
𝑑𝑦
The path difference is Δ𝑥 = 𝑆2 𝑝 − 𝑆1 𝑃 nearly equal to 𝑑 sin 𝜃 = tan 𝜃 = 𝐷
𝑛𝜆𝐷
Hence, we can write, 𝑦 = n is an integer.
𝑑
Fringe width is the distance between two consecutive dark or bright fringes.
𝜆𝐷
So, we have fringe width = 𝑑
𝑣 1
If the whole apparatus is immersed in water and refractive index of water is n then, =𝑛
𝐶
Where 𝑣 is velocity of light in water.

𝑣𝜆
⇒ 𝑛 = 𝑣𝜆 𝜆 = wavelength of light in air
0
𝑣𝜆
⇒ 𝑛 = 𝑣𝜆 𝜆0 = wavelength of light in water
0
𝜆
⇒ 𝜆𝜔 = 𝑛 = velocity of light in water

𝜆𝜔 𝑑 𝜆𝑑
Hence, 𝛽𝜔 = = 𝑛𝐷
𝐷
1
𝛽𝜔 = 𝛽
𝑛
This shows fringe width will be reduced by the factor of the refractive index of water.
Q.19. A beam of light consisting of two wavelengths, 800 nm and 600 nm is used to
obtain the interference fringes in young’s double slit experiment on a screen placed
1.4m away. If the two slits are separated by 0.28 mm. calculate the least distance from
the central bright maximum where the bright fringes of the two wavelength coincide.
Ans. (b) Given –
𝜆1 = 800 𝑛𝑚 = 800 × 109 𝑚
𝜆2 = 600 𝑛𝑚 = 600 × 109 𝑚
𝐷 = 1.4𝑚
𝑑 = 0.28 𝑚𝑚 = 0.28 × 10−3 𝑚
Let 𝑁1𝑡ℎ maximum corresponds to 𝜆1 coincides with 𝑛2𝑡ℎ maximum corresponds 𝜆2 then
𝜆1 𝐷 𝜆2 𝐷
𝑛1 = 𝑛2
𝑑 𝑑
𝑛1 𝑛 600 3
or, = 𝑛2 = 800 = 4
𝑛2 1
The minimum integral value of 𝑛1 is 3 and of 𝑁2 is 4. Therefore, the minimum value of y is.
𝜆1 𝐷 3 × 800 × 10−9 × 1.4
𝑦 𝑚𝑖𝑥 = =
𝑑 0.28 × 10−3
𝑦 𝑚𝑖𝑥 = 12𝑚𝑚
Position of first bright fringe.
𝜆𝐴 = 800 𝑛𝑚 = 800 × 10−9 𝑚 = 8 × 10−7 𝑚.
𝐷
𝑥𝐴 = 𝜆
𝑑
= 8 × 10−7
𝑑 = 0.28 𝑚𝑚, = 0.28 × 10−3 𝑚.
𝐷 = 1.4 𝑚
𝐷 8 × 10−7 × 1.4
𝑋𝐴 = 𝜆 =
𝑑 0.28 × 10−3
= 4 × 10−4 × 10 = 4 × 10 − 3 𝑀.
For wavelength 𝜆𝐵 = 600𝑛𝑚 = 600 × 10−9 𝑚 = 6 × 10−7 𝑀

Position of the first bright fringe is

𝐷
𝑋𝐵 = 𝜆
𝑑
6 × 10−7 × 1.4
= −3
= 3 × 10−7 × 10−3 × 10
0.28 × 10
= 3 × 103 𝑚
The least distance, form the central maximum, where the bright fringes coincides.
= 𝑋𝐴 − 𝑋𝐵
= 4 × 10−3 − 3 × 103
= 1 × 10−3 𝑚 = 1𝑛𝑚
Q.20. (a) How does an un-polarized light incident on polaroid get polarized?
Describe briefly, with the help of a necessary diagram, the polarization of light by
reflection from a transparent medium.
(b) Two polaroid ‘A’ and ‘B’ are kept in crossed position. How should a third polaroid
‘C’ be placed between them so that the intensity of polarized light transmitted by
polaroid B reduced to 1/8th of the intensity of un-polarized light incident on A?
Ans. (a) When the light waves transmit only one component parallel to a special axis, then
the resulting light is called linearly polarized or plane polarized.
Since sound waves are longitudinal waves and polarization of the waves can only be
exhibited by the transverse waves.
(b) A polaroid consists a material Tourmaline, which polarizes light.

If an un-polarized light wave is incident on such a polaroid, then the light wave get linearly
polarized with the electric vector oscillating along a direction perpendicular to the aligned
molecules.
If the light from an ordinary source (like a sodium lamp) passes through a polaroid sheet 𝑃1 ,
it is observed that its intensity is reduced by half. Rotating 𝑃1 has no effect on the transmitted
beam and transmitted intensity remains constant.
Let an identical piece of polaroid 𝑃2 be placed before 𝑃1 , the light from the lamp is reduced
in intensity on passing through 𝑃2 alone. But rotating 𝑃1 has effect on the light coming from
𝑃2 .
In one position, the intensity transmitted by 𝑃2 followed by 𝑃1 is nearly zero. When turned by
900 from this position, 𝑃1 transmits nearly the full intensity emerging from 𝑃2 as shown in
fig.

Q.21. (a) In young’s double slit experiment, describe briefly how bright and dark
fringes are obtained on the screen kept in front of a double slit. Hence obtain the
expression for the fringe width.
(b) the ratio of the intensity at minima to the maxima in young’s double slit experiment
is 9:25. Find the ratio of the widths of the two slits.
Ans. (a) In Young’s double-slit experiment, the wavelength from the two illuminated silts
superimposed on the screen. This leads to formation of alternate dark and bright fringes due
to constructive and destructive interference, respectively. At the center C of the screen, the
intensity of light is maximum and it is called central maxima.
Let 𝑆1 and 𝑆2 be two slits separated by a distance 𝑑. GG′ is the screen at a distance D from the
slits 𝑆1 and 𝑆2. Point C is equidistant from both the slits. The intensity of light will be
maximum at this point because the path difference of the waves reaching this point will be
zero. At point P, the path difference between the rays coming from the slits 𝑆1 and 𝑆2 is
𝑆2 𝑃 − 𝑆1 𝑃.
Now, 𝑆1 𝑆2 = 𝑑, EF = 𝑑, and 𝑆2 F = D
∴ ∆ 𝑆2 PF,
1
𝑆2 𝑃 = [𝑆2 𝐹2 + 𝑃𝐹2 ]
2
1
1
2 2 𝑑 2 2
𝑑 𝑥+2
S2 P = [𝐷2 + (𝑥 + ) ] = D [1 + ( 2 ) ]
2 𝐷
Similarly, in ∆ S1 PE
1
d 2 2
𝑥−2
S1 P = D [1 + ( 2 ) ]
D
1
𝑑 2 2 d 2
1𝑥 + 2 1 𝑥+2
∴ S2 P − S1 P = D [1 + (1 + ) ] − D [1 + (1 + ) ]
2 𝐷2 2 D2
1 𝑑 𝑥𝑑
On expanding it binomially, 𝑆2 𝑃 − 𝑆1 𝑃 = [4𝑥 ] =
2𝐷 2 𝐷

For bright fringes (constructive interference), the path difference is an integral multiple of
wavelength 𝑖. 𝑒. path difference is ne.
𝑥𝑑
∴ 𝑛𝜆 =
𝐷
𝑛𝜆𝐷
𝑥=
𝑑
Where n = 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, For 𝑛 = 0, 𝑥0 = 0
𝜆𝐷 2𝜆𝐷
𝑛 = 1, 𝑥1 = , 𝑛 = 2, 𝑥2 =
𝑑 𝑑
3𝜆𝐷
𝑛 = 3, 𝑥3 =
𝑑
3𝜆𝐷
𝑛 = 𝑛, 𝑥𝑛 =
𝑑
Fringe width (β) →
Separation between the centres of two consicutive bright fringes is called the width of a
dark fringe.
𝜆𝐷
∴ 𝛽 = 𝑋𝑛 − 𝑋𝑛−1 =
𝑑
Similarly, for dark fringes,
𝜆𝐷
𝑥𝑛 = (2𝑛 − 1)
2𝑑
𝜆𝐷
For 𝑛 = 1, 𝑥1 =
2𝑑
3𝜆𝐷
For 𝑛 = 2, 𝑥2 =
2𝑑
The separation between the centers of two consecutive dark interface fingers is the width of a
bright fringe.
𝜆𝐷
∴ 𝛽2 = 𝑥𝑛 − 𝑥𝑛−1 =
𝑑
∴ 𝛽1 = 𝛽2
All the bright and dark fringes are of equal width as 𝛽1 = 𝛽2
(b) Let 𝜔, 𝑎, I represent the slit width, amplitude and intensity.
𝐼max (𝑎1 + 𝑎2 )2 25
= =
𝐼min (𝑎1 − 𝑎2 )2 9
𝑎1 + 𝑎2 5
⇒ =
𝑎1 − 𝑎2 3
𝑎1 4
⇒ =
𝑎2 1
𝑤1 𝑎1 2
Now = = 16 ∶ 1.
𝑤2 𝑎2 2

Q.22. State Huygens’s principle. Show, with the help of a, suitable diagram, how this
principle is used to obtain the diffraction pattern by a single slit. Draw a plot of
intensity distribution and explain clearly why the secondary maxima become weaker
with increasing order (n) of the secondary maxima.
Ans. Laws of reflection by Huygens’s Principle: Let PQ be reflecting surface. Let a plane
wave front AB moving through the medium (air) towards the surface PQ meet at the point B.
Let C be the velocity of light and t be the time of A to reach A’ then AA’ = ct.
By the Huygens’s principle, secondary wavelets start from B and cover a distance ct in time t
and reaches at B’.
To obtain new wave front, draw circles with point B as center and ct (AA’=BB’) as radius.
Draw a tangent A’D from the point A’.
Then A’D represent the reflected waves lets which travels at right angle.
Therefore, incident wave front AB and reflected wave front A’D and normal lies in the same
plane.
In ∆ABA′ and ∆DBA′

AA′ = BD = ct
BA′ = BA′ [Common]
∠BAA′ = ∠BDA′ [each 900
∴ ∆ABA′ ≅ ∆DBA′ [by R. H. S]
∠ABA′ = ∠DA′ B [C. P. C. T]
∴ incident angle 𝑖 = reflected angle 𝑟
∠𝑖 = ∠𝑟
Hence, the Laws of reflections is proved.
Q.23. (a) Define a wavefront. Using Huygens’ principle, verify the laws of reflection at a
plane surface.
Ans. The wave front may be defined as a surface of constant phase.
(Alternatively: The wave front is the loci of all points that are in the same phase)

Let speed of the wave in the medium be ‘v’

Let the time taken by the wave front, to advance from point B to point C is ′𝜏′
Hence BC= 𝑣𝜏
Let CE represent the reflected wave front
Distance AE = 𝑣𝜏 = 𝐵𝐶
∆𝐴𝐸𝐶 𝑎𝑛𝑑 ∆𝐴𝐵𝐶 are congruent
∴ ∠𝐵𝐴𝐶 = ∠𝐸𝐶𝐴
∠𝑖 = ∠𝑟
(b) In a single slit diffraction experiment, the width of the slit is made double the
original width. How does this affect the size and intensity of the central diffraction
band? Explain.
Ans. Size of central maxima reduces to half,
2𝜆𝐷
(∴ 𝑆𝑖𝑧𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑙 𝑚𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑚𝑎 = )
𝑎
Intensity increases.
This is because the amount of light, entering the slit, has increased and the area, over which it
falls, decreases.
(c) When a tiny circular obstacle is placed in the path of light from a distant source, a
bright spot is seen at the centre of the obstacle. Explain why.
Ans. The is because of diffraction of light
[Alternatively: Light gets diffracted by the tiny circular obstacle and reaches the centre of the
shadow of the obstacle.]
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Perfect solution to all problems

Tips, Tricks, General Knowledge, Current Affairs, Latest Sample,

CBSE 12th Physics

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∴ Distance, 𝑑 = 8 × 10−5 = 80 𝜇𝑚.

Q.8. Define the term ’linearly polarized light’.

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The relation between incidence angle 𝑖𝐵 is given by 𝜇 = 𝑡𝑎𝑛 𝑖𝐵

Q.10. In Young’s double slit experiment, monochromatic light of wavelength 630 nm

8.1 × 10−3 630 × 10−9

= 560 × 10−9 𝑚 = 560nm.

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𝑑 = 0.15 mm = 0.15 × 10−3 𝑚

𝜆 = 450nm = 450 × 10−9 𝑚

= 4.5 × 10−7 𝑚, 𝐷 = 1.0𝑚

3𝜆𝐷 (2𝑛 − 1)𝜆𝐷

3 × 4.5 × 10−7 × 1.0 3 × 4.5

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Q.13. The velocity of a certain monochromatic light, in a given transparent medium

Ans. Here, 𝑣 = 2.25 × 108 𝑚/𝑠

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(a) If c is the critical angle, then

𝑡𝑎𝑛 𝑖𝛽 = 1.33 = tan 53. 06𝑜 ⇒ 𝑖𝛽 = 53. 06𝑜 .

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[θ = 900 − 300 = 60𝟎 ]

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∴ BC = 𝑣1 𝑡 [distance = speed ×time]

∴ CE would represent the refracted wave front.

In ∆ABC and ∆AEC, We have

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Difference between interference and diffraction.

Interference pattern Diffraction pattern

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Explanation: According to Huygens principle, the monochromatic source of light

Expression for the fringe width:

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By Binomial Theorem and neglecting higher terms, we have

Hence path difference = S2 P − S1 P

Where n= 0, ±1, ±2….

∴ Fringe width, ß = 𝑥𝑛+1 - 𝑥𝑛

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Where n= 0, ±1, ±2….

Fringe Width ß = 𝑥𝑛+1 − 𝑥𝑛

[(2𝑛 + 1) + 1]𝜆𝐷 (2𝑛 + 1)𝜆𝐷 𝜆𝐷 2𝜆𝐷

(i) Fringe width is directly proportional to the wavelength of light. i.e. ß 𝛼 𝜆.

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𝜆1 = 590𝑛𝑚 = 5.9 × 10−7 𝑚

𝜆2 = 596𝑛𝑚 = 5.96 × 10−7 𝑚

Distance of the two slits = a = 2 × 10−4 𝑚

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∴ Ratio of the amplitudes

(b) For bright fringes (maxima),

For dark fringes (minima),

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∴ Fringe width 𝑃 = 𝑥𝑛 − 𝑥𝑛−1

Q.18. State the importance of coherent sources in the phenomenon of interference. In

The waves interfering at P have different distances 𝑆1 𝑃 = 𝑥 and 𝑆2 𝑃 = 𝑥 + Δ𝑥.

So, for the two sources 𝑆1and 𝑆2 we can respectively write,

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𝐼1 = 𝐼01 sin(𝑘𝑥 − 𝓌𝑡)

𝐼1 = 𝐼02 sin(𝑘(𝑥 + Δ𝑥) − 𝓌𝑡)

Where 𝑣 is velocity of light in water.