Physics > Wave Optics > 1.0 Introduction
Wave Optics
1.0 Introduction
1.1 Wavefronts
1.2 Huygens Principle
1.3 Interference of light
1.4 Intensity distribution
1.5 Phase difference
2.0 Young's double slit experiment
3.0 Diffraction of light
4.0 Polarisation
1.1 Wavefronts
1.2 Huygens Principle
1.3 Interference of light
1.4 Intensity distribution
1.5 Phase difference
The locus of all particles of the medium vibrating in the same phase at a given instant is known as wavefront.
Types of wavefront
- Spherical wavefronts
- Cylindrical wavefronts
- Plane wavefronts
1.1.1 Spherical wavefront
When the source of light is a point source, then the wavefronts are spherical.
$P$: Point source
1, 2, 3: Wavefronts
1.1.2 Cylindrical wavefronts
When the source of light is linear, then the wavefronts are cylindrical.
1, 2, 3: Cylindrical wavefronts
$L$: Linear source
1.1.3 Plane wavefronts
When light source is emitting parallel rays or when the light is coming from a very far source.
