Question:

The condition for observing Fraunhofer diffraction from a single slit is that the wavefront incident on a single slit must be

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Fraunhofer diffraction is the far-field case, where the source is effectively at infinity.
Updated On: Nov 12, 2026
  • spherical.
  • plane.
  • cylindrical.
  • elliptical.
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept
In Fraunhofer diffraction, the source and the screen are effectively at infinite distance from the slit.

Step 2: Wavefront shape
Light from a source at infinity, or from a source at the focus of a convex lens, arrives as a plane wavefront.

Step 3: Conclusion
Spherical or cylindrical wavefronts from a nearby source give Fresnel diffraction instead.
So the incident wavefront must be plane.

Final Answer:
The wavefront incident on the slit must be plane. \[ \boxed{\text{(B) }\text{plane.}} \]
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