Two-Point Source Interference
The Two Point Source Interference Video Tutorial describes the interference of waves from two sources and explains how its occurrence for light provides evidence for the wave model of light. Numerous examples, illustrations, and animations assist in the explanations.
The video lesson answers the following questions:
- What is two-point source interference?
- How does two-point source interference provide support for the wave model of light?
Video
You can watch the video below, or click here to watch on YouTube (opens in a new tab).
To improve the effectiveness of the learning experience, The Physics Classroom has provided the following tools:
Additional and Related Learning Tools
Physics Interactives, Light and Color: Young's Experiment
After you understand two-point source interference, the next logical step is to do Young's Experiment. Whet your appetite! Visit this simulation to see where all this is heading.
Science Reasoning Center, Light Waves: Models of Light
This interactive exercise probes the dual nature of light. The success and failure of the wave model of light and the particle model of light to explain reflection, diffraction, interference,and the photoelectric effect are explored.
The Physics Classroom Tutorial, Light Waves and Color: Two-Point Source Interference
This written tutorial page is the written companion to our video tutorial. When you need a quick reference, consider a trip to this page.
Teacher Resources
Physics Interactives, Light and Color: Young's Experiment
After understanding two-point source interference, the next logical step is to do Young's Experiment. This Task-Tracker compatible simulation provides students an environment to practice using Young's Equation to measure the wavelength of light. Feedback is immediate. Students have multiple opportunities to correct their errors.
Science Reasoning Center, Light Waves: Models of Light
This interactive exercise probes the dual nature of light. The success and failure of the wave model of light and the particle model of light to explain reflection, diffraction, interference,and the photoelectric effect are explored. Use it with or without a Task Tracker account.
The Physics Classroom Tutorial, Light Waves and Color: Two-Point Source Interference
This written tutorial page is the written companion to our video tutorial. When your students need a quick reference, encourage them to visit this page.
Lesson Notes
Download (opens in a new tab) or view below
Slides
Do you like the slides we used? They are available in our low cost Teacher Presentation Pack, along with other updated materials used in our presentation.