Question:
Two images are considered "just resolved" according to Rayleigh's criterion when
Two images are considered "just resolved" according to Rayleigh's criterion when
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Rayleigh's criterion sets the limit at which two diffraction patterns can still be told apart.
Updated On: Nov 12, 2026
- the central maxima of the diffraction pattern of two sources nearly overlap.
- the first minimum of the diffraction pattern of one source coincides with the central maximum of the diffraction pattern of other source.
- the first minimum of the diffraction pattern of one source coincides with the first secondary maximum of the diffraction pattern of the other source.
- the first minimum of the diffraction pattern of one source is far from the central maximum of diffraction pattern of the other source.
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The Correct Option is B
Solution and Explanation
Step 1: Understanding the Concept
Each point source forms a diffraction pattern with a bright central maximum surrounded by minima.
Step 2: Rayleigh's criterion
Two images are just resolved when the central maximum of one pattern falls exactly on the first minimum of the other pattern.
Step 3: Compare the options
If the central maxima nearly overlap, the images merge.
If the first minimum lies far from the other central maximum, the images are well resolved, not just resolved.
Final Answer:
The images are just resolved when the first minimum of one pattern coincides with the central maximum of the other. \[ \boxed{\text{(B) }\text{the first minimum of the diffraction pattern of one source coincides with the central maximum of the diffraction pattern of other source.}} \]
Each point source forms a diffraction pattern with a bright central maximum surrounded by minima.
Step 2: Rayleigh's criterion
Two images are just resolved when the central maximum of one pattern falls exactly on the first minimum of the other pattern.
Step 3: Compare the options
If the central maxima nearly overlap, the images merge.
If the first minimum lies far from the other central maximum, the images are well resolved, not just resolved.
Final Answer:
The images are just resolved when the first minimum of one pattern coincides with the central maximum of the other. \[ \boxed{\text{(B) }\text{the first minimum of the diffraction pattern of one source coincides with the central maximum of the diffraction pattern of other source.}} \]
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