NEETPhysicsWave Optics
Which of the following statements regarding wave phenomena is incorrect?
Options
- ASound waves can produce interference patterns under suitable conditions.
- BThe average intensity over the screen in an interference pattern is equal to the sum of the intensities of the
- CDiffraction is a universal wave phenomenon that can also be exhibited by matter waves such as electrons.
- DDuring the formation of a dark fringe in an interference pattern, the light energy is absorbed by the screen a
Correct answer
D. During the formation of a dark fringe in an interference pattern, the light energy is absorbed by the screen a
Step-by-step solution
In an interference pattern, the principle of conservation of energy is strictly obeyed. The light energy is not destroyed, absorbed by the screen, or dissipated as heat at the dark fringes. Instead, it is spatially redistributed such that the energy 'missing' at the dark fringes exactly compensates for the increased energy at the bright fringes. Sound waves are mechanical waves and can undergo interference and diffraction just like light waves. The average intensity in an interference pattern is exactly equal to th