Write the thoughts expressed by Richard Feynman regarding the difference between interference and diffraction.

Vedclass pdf generator app on play store
Vedclass iOS app on app store
(N/A) Richard Feynman noted that almost no one has ever been able to define the difference between interference and diffraction in a completely satisfactory way.
He suggested that it is primarily a matter of usage and terminology,rather than a fundamental physical distinction.
According to his perspective,when we deal with a small number of sources (e.g.,two interfering sources),the resulting phenomenon is typically referred to as interference. Conversely,when we deal with a large number of sources (such as the continuous distribution of wavelets across a slit),the term diffraction is more commonly used.

Explore More

Similar Questions

In a single slit diffraction experiment,the width of the slit is made double its original width. Then the central maximum of the diffraction pattern will become

The width of the central maximum of a diffraction pattern on a single slit does not depend upon:

$A$ single slit of width $d$ is illuminated by violet light of wavelength $400 \ nm$ and the width of the diffraction pattern is measured as $Y$. When half of the slit width is covered and illuminated by yellow light of wavelength $600 \ nm$,the width of the diffraction pattern is

$A$ single slit of width $b$ is illuminated by a coherent monochromatic light of wavelength $\lambda$. If the second and fourth minima in the diffraction pattern at a distance $1\,m$ from the slit are at $3\,cm$ and $6\,cm$ respectively from the central maximum,what is the width of the central maximum in $cm$ (i.e.,distance between the first minimum on either side of the central maximum)?

$A$ parallel beam of light of wavelength $\lambda$ is incident normally on a single slit of width $d$. Diffraction bands are obtained on a screen placed at a distance $D$ from the slit. The second dark band from the central bright band will be at a distance given by

Vedclass Products

For Students

Vedclass Test Series

Mock tests in real JEE/NEET style with performance analysis. 5-day free trial.

Start Free Trial
For Teachers

Exam Paper Generator

Generate Set A/B/C/D exam papers from 7.5L+ questions in 2 minutes. 3 chapters free.

Try Free
For Institutes

Online Exam Module

Live online exams with unlimited students, 360° analytics & white-label branding.

See Demo