Interference pattern and phase difference

Interference is a phenomenon that occurs when two or more waves meet at a single point in space. When these waves have the same frequency, amplitude, and are in phase, they create an interference pattern that is characterized by alternating constructive and destructive interference. The phase difference between the two sources plays a crucial role in determining the nature of the interference pattern.

Continuous phase difference variation

If the phase difference between the two sources varies continuously, it implies that the sources are not coherent. This is because a coherent source has a constant phase difference, and any variation in the phase difference will result in a change in the interference pattern. When the phase difference is continuously varying, the interference pattern will disappear completely.

Reason for the disappearance of the interference pattern

The reason for the disappearance of the interference pattern is that the waves from the two sources are not synchronized. They do not have a fixed phase relationship, and as a result, they interfere randomly with each other. This means that the constructive and destructive interference cancel out each other, resulting in a uniform distribution of energy throughout the space.

Conclusion

In summary, the interference pattern created by two sources depends on the phase difference between them. When the phase difference varies continuously, the interference pattern disappears completely. This is because the waves from the two sources are not coherent, and they interfere randomly with each other, resulting in a uniform distribution of energy throughout the space.