COMEDK · Physics · 26. Wave Optics

If the intensity of the central maximum in the Young's double slit experiment is \(I_0\), what will be the intensity at the same region when one of the slits is blocked by an opaque object?

A \(\dfrac{I_0}{2}\)
B \(I_0\)
C \(\dfrac{I_0}{4}\)
D \(\dfrac{I_0}{8}\)

Verified Solution

Answer & Solution

Correct Answer

(C) \(\dfrac{I_0}{4}\)

Step-by-step Solution

Detailed explanation

Let the intensity of light from each slit be \(I\). The intensity of the central maximum in Young's double slit experiment is given by \(I_{max} = (\sqrt{I} + \sqrt{I})^2 = 4I\). Given that \(I_{max} = I_0\), we have \(I_0 = 4I \Rightarrow I = \dfrac{I_0}{4}\). When one of the…

Apply the relevant identity from the chapter and substitute the values established in the previous step, keeping the original constraint in view.

Use the simplified expression to isolate the unknown, then plug the result back into the question setup to confirm the working is internally consistent.

Cross-check against a boundary or limiting case. Both the dimensional balance and the qualitative behaviour at the extreme should agree with the candidate answer.

Combine the steps above to identify the correct option. The remaining choices each fail at least one of the consistency, dimensional, or boundary checks.

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