Exam-style question
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How does path difference lead to constructive interference?.
- A.When the path difference is an odd multiple of half the wavelength.
- B.When the path difference is a whole number multiple of the wavelength.
- C.When the path difference is zero.
- D.When the path difference is equal to the wavelength.
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- When the path difference is a whole number multiple of the wavelength.
Explanation
Why this works
Constructive interference occurs when the path difference between two waves is a whole number multiple of the wavelength, resulting in the waves being in phase and reinforcing each other. This leads to an increase in amplitude at the point of interference.
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