Chapter 35, Problem 11P

Suppose that the two waves in Fig. 35-4 have wavelength λ = 500 nm in air. What multiple of λ gives their phase difference when they emerge if (a) n₁= 1.50, n₂ = 1.60, and L = 8.50 μm; (b) n₁ = 1.62, n₂ = 1.72, and L = 8.50 μm; and (c) n₁= 1.59, n₂= 1.79, and L = 3.25 μm? (d) Suppose that in each of these three situations the waves arrive at a common point (with the same amplitude) after emerging. Rank the situations according to the brightness the waves produce at the common point.