Asked in UHS MDCAT 2008 2008Moderate

The centre of Newton rings is dark due to:

Correct answer: B. Destructive interference.

  • A. Polarization
  • B. Destructive interference.
  • C. Constructive interference.
  • D. Reflection.

Explanation

During constructive interference the path difference between the concave lens and the reflective surface i.e. glass slab must be an odd multiple of λ/2, [2n-1×(λ/2)], where n=natural numbers, for destructive interference it must be an even multiple of λ/2, the centre point of newton rings is formed at the point of contact between the lens and the glass. Since the path difference is zero, the condition of destructive interference is satisfied and the centre point is dark.

Last updated

About Superposition and Interference

Superposition states that overlapping waves produce a resultant displacement equal to the algebraic sum of their individual displacements. Interference covers constructive and destructive interference, phase difference, path difference, coherent sources, and conditions for maxima and minima. It differs from diffraction, which involves spreading around openings or obstacles.

Practise Waves

1,281 free Waves MCQs from Physics, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.

Exams that ask Physics questions like this

Physics is on 13 papers prepared for on TestUstad, and all of them draw the same bank, so this question is worth knowing for every one of them.

Related questions