Exam-style question
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In Young's double-slit experiment, what role does the wavelength of light play in the interference pattern observed?.
- A.It determines the color of the light.
- B.It affects the distance between the fringes.
- C.It changes the speed of light.
- D.It has no effect on the pattern.
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- It affects the distance between the fringes.
Explanation
Why this works
The cause is the wavelength of the light used in the experiment. The mechanism is that longer wavelengths result in wider spacing between the interference fringes due to the geometry of wave propagation and interference.
The effect is that varying the wavelength alters the fringe separation, which is a characteristic of wave behavior, thus supporting the wave model of light.
Common mistake
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