Possible Difference in Light Paths for Coherent Sources at Point P?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on a physics problem involving two coherent light sources that produce zero intensity at point P due to destructive interference. The key point is that for this cancellation to occur, the difference in path length between the two light sources must equal half the wavelength (1/2 lambda). Participants emphasize the importance of understanding wave interference and the conditions required for it to happen. Clarification is sought regarding the diagram's configuration, as there is confusion about whether it represents a triangle or rays from a common origin. The conversation highlights the need for a visual aid to better analyze the problem and offers guidance rather than direct solutions.
jullrich
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Homework Statement

: The diagram represents two coherent light sources emitting light of equal intensity and wavelength. The intensity of the light at point P is zero. Which of the following could be the difference in path length taken by the light in traveling from each source to point P?



Homework Equations

: the diagram looks like a 3-4-5 triangle with the short side left off and where to two lines cross for a point on the opposite side to be point P. The length of one side is 4.3 cm and the other side is 5.1 cm.



The Attempt at a Solution

: we know the answer is 1/2 lamda but have no idea how to how solve this ... please help

 
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jullrich said:

Homework Statement

: The diagram represents two coherent light sources emitting light of equal intensity and wavelength. The intensity of the light at point P is zero. Which of the following could be the difference in path length taken by the light in traveling from each source to point P?



Homework Equations

: the diagram looks like a 3-4-5 triangle with the short side left off and where to two lines cross for a point on the opposite side to be point P. The length of one side is 4.3 cm and the other side is 5.1 cm.



The Attempt at a Solution

: we know the answer is 1/2 lamda but have no idea how to how solve this ... please help

Welcome to PF!

Do you know what is interference and what conditions must be applied for interference to occur?
 
No interference and no conditions.
 
What do you mean no interference? You haven't studied it or it isn't the case here?

Check out when waves interfere to cancel each other. To understand this, you must know how to plot a graph for a wave. And if you could upload the diagram (the actual one or sketched in paint), it would be a bit easier to discuss the exercise. Just remember that nobody will solve it for you. People will only give you hints to help you better understand the exercise and solve it yourself.
 
The diagram looks like two rays from the same origin point.
The end of the rays would be the light itself.
 
Well, you got me confused. At first you say that the diagram is a triangle but now you say that waves originate from the same point and meet at point P. For two waves two have an interference minimum (cancel out each other, hence have an intensity sum zero at an intersection point) they must be coherent and one must have the distance traveled by lamda/2 more. As much as I understand from your description of the exercise, this is what's asked. However, you have these 4.3 and 5.1 and I'm rather confused why.
 
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