Question:

Young's double slit experiment setup is in such a way that, when path difference is $\lambda$, then intensity at a point is I. If the path difference is $\lambda/4$, then intensity at the same point is:

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Intensity in interference is proportional to the square of the cosine of half the phase difference.
Updated On: Jun 10, 2026
  • $I/\sqrt{2}$
  • $I/2$
  • $2I$
  • $\sqrt{2}I$
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Concept
Intensity $I = I_0 \cos^2(\phi/2)$, where phase difference $\phi = (2\pi/\lambda) \Delta x$.

Step 2: Analysis
For path difference $\lambda$, $\phi = 2\pi$, so $I = I_0 \cos^2(\pi) = I_0$. Thus $I_0 = I$. For path difference $\lambda/4$, $\phi = (2\pi/\lambda) \cdot (\lambda/4) = \pi/2$. Intensity $I' = I \cos^2(\pi/4) = I \cdot (1/\sqrt{2})^2 = I/2$.

Step 3: Conclusion
The intensity becomes $I/2$.

Final Answer: (B)
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