PhysicsChapter 4: Diffraction and Interference
Interference of Microwaves
Microwave interference
Definition
Microwave interference is the variation of received microwave intensity caused by superposition of coherent microwave waves.
Significance
Microwaves are electromagnetic waves with wavelengths much longer than visible light. Because their wavelengths are relatively large, interference effects can be demonstrated using laboratory-scale apparatus. Two coherent microwave paths can be produced directly or by splitting/reflection. At a detector: constructive condition: Δr=nλ destructive condition: Δr=(n+½)λ Moving the detector or changing one path can produce alternating strong and weak signals. Microwave interference confirms that electromagnetic radiation obeys general wave-superposition principles.
Formula / Key Relation
**Δφ=2πΔr/λ**
Exam preparation
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Review the key facts, formulas and checks before you move on.Interference of Microwaves
Sticky Notes · Quick Revision
Microwave:
- EM wave
- longer λ than visible light
- can interfere
60-second revision
- Microwave interference is a convenient large-scale demonstration of electromagnetic-wave superposition.
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