Explain how Maxima and Minima occur in Young's double slit experiment

When coherent, in-phase light passes through two slits they act as seperate sources, these waves diffract and overlap, causing regions of constructive and destructive interference. When they collide with a screen maxima are produced when there is a (N) wavelength path difference, leading to constructive interference. Minima are produced when there is a (N+1/2) wavelenght path difference, so the waves have destructive interference

CD
Answered by Charlie D. Physics tutor

11829 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do I find an area in m^2 when I'm given lengths in cm?


What is the definition of the photoelectric effect?


How do you work out the work out the current through resistors in parallel?


The roar of a tiger in a zoo can be heard by visitors at the entrance, even though the tiger can not be seen because there is a hill in the way. Name and explain this effect.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning