Difference between Interference and Diffraction
The concepts of diffraction and interference are often confused because they both involve
the behaviour of waves. However, they are distinct phenomena that occur under different
circumstances. Interference is the result of the superposition of waves from two separate
coherent sources, while diffraction is the bending and spreading of waves around obstacles or
through apertures, caused by the secondary wavelets that originate from different parts of the
same wave. To gain a deeper understanding of these phenomena, studying the resolving power
of a telescope and microscope can be enlightening.
Distinguishing Between Diffraction and Interference
To distinguish between diffraction and interference, one must examine the regions of minimum
intensity. In interference, these regions are much darker, while in diffraction, they are less dark.
This is just one of many factors that differentiate the two phenomena. Below, we have outlined
some of the most significant differences:
Differences Between Interference and Diffraction
Interference Diffraction
Diffraction is the bending and spreading of waves
Interference is the superposition of waves from
around obstacles or through apertures, caused by
two distinct sources, producing different
secondary wavelets from different parts of the same
wavefronts.
wave.
The contrast between maxima and minima in The contrast between maxima and minima in
interference is very high. diffraction is relatively low.
In interference, the width of the fringes is equal. In diffraction, the width of the fringes is not equal.
In interference, the sources are considered
In diffraction, if the number of sources is more than
interference sources if the number of sources is as
two, the sources are considered diffraction sources.
few as two.
This comprehensive comparison provides a clear understanding of the differences between
Interference and Diffraction.
Dr. P. Venkata Ramana, AUCE(A)