Two coherent waves are E₁=E₀sin(2πx₁/λ−2πft+π/6) and E₂=E₀sin(2πx₂/λ−2πft+π/8). Which relation between x₁ and x₂ gives constructive interference?
Physics · Wave Optics
JEE Mains Advanced

Question

Two coherent waves are E₁=E₀sin(2πx₁/λ−2πft+π/6) and E₂=E₀sin(2πx₂/λ−2πft+π/8). Which relation between x₁ and x₂ gives constructive interference?

G1 Physics · Accepted Answer

Constructive interference requires total phase difference 2πn. Thus 2π(x₁−x₂)/λ+(π/6−π/8)=2πn. Since π/6−π/8=π/24, x₁−x₂=(n−1/48)λ. Hence option A.