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CAIE A-Level Physics AS 8.3.1 The Terms Interference and Coherence Questions

Define interference and coherence, including the conditions required for coherent sources.

Syllabus
2028–2030
Course
Physics 9702
Level
AS

Exam points

  • Define interference and coherence, including the conditions required for coherent sources.

CAIE A-Level Physics AS 8.3.1 The Terms Interference and Coherence Questions question 1

[Maximum number: 1]

Two sources S1\mathrm{S}_{1} and S2\mathrm{S}_{2} of sound waves are positioned as shown in Fig. 5.2.

Fig. 5.2 (not to scale)

Fig. 5.2 (not to scale)

The sources emit coherent sound waves of wavelength 0.85 m . A sound detector is moved parallel to the line S1S2S_{1} S_{2} from a point X to a point Y. Alternate positions of maximum loudness L and minimum loudness Q are detected, as illustrated in Fig. 5.2.

Distance S1XS_{1} X is equal to distance S2XS_{2} X. Distance S2YS_{2} Y is 7.40 m.

Explain what is meant by coherent waves.

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