Exam-style question
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What is the effect of path difference on interference patterns?.
- A.It determines the amplitude of the waves.
- B.It affects the frequency of the waves.
- C.It influences the position of maxima and minima.
- D.It changes the speed of the waves.
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- It influences the position of maxima and minima.
Explanation
Why this works
The path difference between two waves determines where constructive and destructive interference occurs, thus influencing the positions of maxima (bright spots) and minima (dark spots) in the interference pattern.
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