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University Physics Volume 3

Key Terms

University Physics Volume 3Key Terms

Key Terms

coherent waves
waves are in phase or have a definite phase relationship
fringes
bright and dark patterns of interference
incoherent
waves have random phase relationships
interferometer
instrument that uses interference of waves to make measurements
monochromatic
light composed of one wavelength only
Newton’s rings
circular interference pattern created by interference between the light reflected off two surfaces as a result of a slight gap between them
order
integer m used in the equations for constructive and destructive interference for a double slit
principal maximum
brightest interference fringes seen with multiple slits
secondary maximum
bright interference fringes of intensity lower than the principal maxima
thin-film interference
interference between light reflected from different surfaces of a thin film
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