What's the Difference Between Monochromatic and Coherent Waves?

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In summary, monochromatic waves have the same frequency but can have different polarizations, while coherent waves have the same frequency, phase, and polarization. Monochromatic waves can be thought of as "one color" while coherent waves are characterized by being "held together" in terms of their properties.
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nousername
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Monochromatic vs Coherent - URGENT. PLEASE HELP!

Hey guys,

I have this exam tomorrow, and i am so confused between monochromatic and coherent waves. Can someone please explain them and the difference between them to me. The more i read the more i get confused.

Thank you

kirollos
 
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Monochromatic means "same frequency" and coherent means "same phase and polarization".
 
  • #3


Excellent. Thanks. So monochromatic can be light with all different polarizations but same frequency, while coherent is monochromatic but has same polarization?
 
  • #4


Basically, yes.
 
  • #5


kirollos said:
Excellent. Thanks. So monochromatic can be light with all different polarizations but same frequency, while coherent is monochromatic but has same polarization?

You could have deduced this.
mono = one; chroma = colour; monochromatic = one colour
 

FAQ: What's the Difference Between Monochromatic and Coherent Waves?

1. What is the difference between monochromatic and coherent light?

Monochromatic light refers to light of a single wavelength or color, while coherent light refers to light waves that are in phase with each other. In other words, monochromatic light has a specific color, while coherent light has a specific direction of oscillation.

2. Can light be both monochromatic and coherent?

Yes, light can be both monochromatic and coherent. For example, laser light is both monochromatic and coherent, as it has a single wavelength and all the light waves are in phase with each other.

3. How are monochromatic and coherent light used in scientific research?

Monochromatic and coherent light are commonly used in various scientific fields such as optics, spectroscopy, and microscopy. They are particularly useful for studying the behavior of light and its interactions with matter.

4. What are the properties of monochromatic and coherent light that make them useful in research?

Monochromatic light allows for precise measurements and analysis of light-matter interactions, as the specific wavelength can be controlled. Coherent light, on the other hand, allows for interference phenomena to be observed and studied, providing valuable information about the structure and properties of materials.

5. How are monochromatic and coherent light sources created?

Monochromatic light can be generated using filters or monochromators, which selectively transmit light of a specific wavelength. Coherent light can be created using a variety of methods, such as using lasers or by passing light through a diffraction grating to create interference patterns.

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