Chapter 35: Interference and Diffraction

Study Plan

Everyday objects, such as compact discs (CDs), can display spectacular rainbows of color. Each “groove” or track on the CD spreads, or diffracts, a reflected light wave, and waves from different tracks combine to produce the observed patterns.

With the concepts developed in this chapter, we can consider several questions about such interference patterns:

  • What do the colors tell us about the source of light? (Section 35.4, page 1185)
  • What does the pattern tell us about the spacing between tracks? (Example 5, page 1185)
  • How does the pattern depend on the size of a track? (Example 8, page 1195)

Organize

  1. Prepare for lecture by reading the assigned sections from Chapter 35 in your textbook or ebook. This will provide an organizing framework for concepts introduced in lecture, and help you take better notes.
  2. Take the checkup quiz and work the Checkup questions in your textbook to assess your understanding of basic concepts. Take note of any topics you need to review further.
  3. Review the Examples from your textbook. These progress from simple to complex, and provide concrete illustrations of the concepts discussed.
  4. Review the Problem Solving Techniques boxes on on Thin-Film Interference (page 1174) and on Two-Slit Interference (page 1181) from your textbook.

Learn

  1. Re-read Chapter 35 and review your lecture notes.
  2. Access the Online Concept Tutorials given for this chapter. Tutorials use animation and interactive exercises to help develop your understanding of fundamental topics.
    Interference and Diffraction
    Sections: 35.3, 35.5
    X-Ray Diffraction
    Sections: 35.4
  3. Use the FlashCards to test your memory for new key terms and equations.
  4. Work the end of chapter Problems and Review Problems assigned by your instructor. If your instructor has assigned SmartWork online homework, login from the right navigation pane.

Connect

  1. Physics in the News offers additional real-world physics applications, and a daily dose of science-based news.

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