Physics Wave Optics 1 Mark
Appeared in: 2022 (3 sets)
Vandana performs Young's double slit experiment by using orange, green and red lights successively. If the fringe widths measured in the three cases are $\omega_1$, $\omega_2$ and $\omega_3$ respectively, then which of the following is correct? (A) $\omega_2 > \omega_1 > \omega_3$ (B) $\omega_1 > \omega_2 > \omega_3$ (C) $\omega_2 > \omega_3 > \omega_1$ (D) $\omega_3 > \omega_1 > \omega_2$
✓ Verified CBSE Marking Scheme Official Evaluation Steps & EL10 Insight

Step 1 (Formula / Governing Law & Given Data): [0.25 Mark]

The fringe width ($\omega$) in Young's Double Slit Experiment (YDSE) is given by the formula:

$$\omega = \frac{\lambda D}{d}$$

Where:

  • $\lambda$ = Wavelength of the light used.
  • $D$ = Distance between the slits and the screen.
  • $d$ = Distance between the two slits.

Since $D$ and $d$ are constant for the experiment, the fringe width is directly proportional to the wavelength: $\omega \propto \lambda$.

Step 2 (Step-by-Step Mathematical Working): [0.5 Mark]

We compare the wavelengths of the three colors used:

  • Green light ($\lambda_2$): $\approx 500\text{ nm}$
  • Orange light ($\lambda_1$): $\approx 600\text{ nm}$
  • Red light ($\lambda_3$): $\approx 700\text{ nm}$

The order of wavelengths is: $\lambda_2 < \lambda_1 < \lambda_3$.

Applying the proportionality $\omega \propto \lambda$:

$$\omega_2 < \omega_1 < \omega_3$$

Rearranging this to match the options provided:

$$\omega_3 > \omega_1 > \omega_2$$

Step 3 (Final Concluded Answer): [0.25 Mark]

Comparing the derived relation with the given options, the correct choice is (D).

Correct Option: (D) $\omega_3 > \omega_1 > \omega_2$

💡 EL10 Concept Insight:

Think of light waves like ripples in a pond; longer waves (like red) are "stretched out" and create wider gaps between the bright spots on the screen, while shorter waves (like green) are "squashed" and create narrower, tighter fringes.