Interference fringes
What Interference fringes means in Physics A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definitions of Interference fringes
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Interference fringes in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
Bright and dark fringes produced when the two recombining beams have a phase difference because the two paths differ slightly in length.
Young's double-slit results supported a wave model, with interference fringes supporting superposition and wave behaviour.
Topics that use Interference fringes
- Interference (AQA A-Level)
- The Michelson-Morley experiment (A-level only) (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- absolute motion
- Classical Galilean velocity addition
- Coherence
- Coherent monochromatic sources
- Coherent sources
- Constructive interference
- Constructive superposition
- Destructive interference
Using Interference fringes in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Physics questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge