Interference and Coherence
PHYS 310 · Module 4
This module develops interference in realistic optical systems. Students study thin films, Newton's rings, coherence length, path differences, and interferometers.
Lessons in this module
Thin-film interference
Thin films produce interference between light reflected from different surfaces. This lesson explains path difference, phase reversal, soap bubbles, oil films, and anti-reflection coatings.
Newton's rings
Newton's rings are circular interference fringes formed by a thin air film between curved and flat glass surfaces. This lesson derives ring conditions and explains radius measurements.
Coherence and path length
Stable interference requires coherence. This lesson explains temporal coherence, spatial coherence, coherence length, path difference, and visibility.
The Michelson interferometer
The Michelson interferometer splits and recombines light to measure path differences with wavelength-scale sensitivity. This lesson explains its operation, fringe shifts, and applications.
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