Physics Investigatory
Project
Title: Study of Interference
of Light Using Young's
Double Slit Experiment
(YDSE)
Student Name: Ruhani
Class: 12
Board: CBSE
Academic Year: 2025–26
________________________________________
Aim:
To study the interference pattern of
monochromatic light using Young’s Double Slit
Experiment (YDSE) and determine the wavelength
of the light source.
________________________________________
Introduction:
Wave optics deals with the behavior of light when
it interacts with obstacles or apertures comparable
in size to its wavelength. One of the most
important phenomena under wave optics is
interference.
Interference occurs when two coherent light waves
superimpose to form a pattern of alternating
bright and dark fringes. This proves the wave
nature of light. The most classic demonstration of
this phenomenon is Young’s Double Slit
Experiment (YDSE), which involves passing
monochromatic light through two closely spaced
slits and observing the resulting interference
pattern on a screen.
This experiment not only demonstrates the
fundamental principle of wave optics but also
allows us to calculate the wavelength of the light
source using fringe measurements.
________________________________________
Apparatus Required:
• Laser pointer (red or green)
• Young’s double slit setup (DIY or
manufactured)
• Screen (white wall, paper, or cardboard)
• Meter scale/ruler
• Vernier caliper (optional)
• Clamp stand or fixed holder for laser
• Dark room or shaded setup for clear visibility
________________________________________
Theory:
When monochromatic light passes through two
closely spaced narrow slits, it produces coherent
sources of light. These sources interfere on the
screen, forming a pattern of alternating bright and
dark fringes. This is due to constructive and
destructive interference.
The path difference between the two waves
determines the type of interference:
• Constructive Interference: Path difference = nλ
(Bright fringe)
• Destructive Interference: Path difference =
(2n+1)λ/2 (Dark fringe)
Where:
• λ = Wavelength of light
• n = Integer (0, 1, 2, ...)
The fringe width (β) i.e., the distance between two
consecutive bright (or dark) fringes is given by:
Where:
• β = Fringe width
• λ = Wavelength of light
• D = Distance between slits and screen
• d = Distance between the two slits
By measuring β, D, and d, we can calculate λ.
________________________________________
Procedure:
1. Fix the laser pointer so it emits a stable,
straight beam.
2. Align the double slit in front of the laser such
that light passes through both slits.
3. Place a white screen at a known distance D
(e.g., 1 meter) from the slits.
4. Switch off surrounding lights to improve
visibility.
5. Observe the interference pattern on the screen
(alternating bright and dark bands).
6. Mark the positions of several bright fringes on
the screen.
7. Measure the distance between successive
bright fringes to calculate fringe width β.
8. Measure the distance between the slits (d)
using a vernier caliper or known value from the slit
specification.
9. Use the formula to calculate λ.
Result:
The observed interference pattern confirms the
wave nature of light. The calculated average
wavelength of the monochromatic light (laser)
used is approximately 637.5 nm, which is
consistent with the standard value for a red laser
pointer.
Conclusion:
Young's Double Slit Experiment is a brilliant
demonstration of wave optics. It shows that light
exhibits wave-like behavior, particularly the
phenomenon of interference. The experiment
allows for a fairly accurate determination of the
wavelength of light using basic optical equipment.
Viva Questions:
1.What is the principle behind YDSE?
2.Why do we use a laser in this experiment?
3.What is meant by coherent sources?
4.What happens if we increase the slit
separation?
5.What would happen if we used white light
instead of laser?
6.How does the fringe width change if the screen
is moved closer?
7.What is the significance of fringe width.
8.Can you do this experiment with sunlight?
Acknowledgment:
I would like to express my gratitude to my Physics
teacher for their valuable guidance and to my
school for providing the necessary equipment to
carry out this investigatory project. Special thanks
to my parents and friends for their support
throughout the project.
Sign:
Ruhani
Class 12
Physics Project
