Difference Between Diffraction and Interference - Detailed Comparison

The concepts of diffraction and interference are often confused because they both involve the behavior 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:

Key Differences Between Diffraction and Interference
Interference	Diffraction
Interference is the superposition of waves from two distinct sources, producing different wavefronts.	Diffraction is the bending and spreading of waves around obstacles or through apertures, caused by secondary wavelets from different parts of the same wave.
The contrast between maxima and minima in interference is very high.	The contrast between maxima and minima in 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 interference sources if the number of sources is as few as two.	In diffraction, if the number of sources is more than two, the sources are considered diffraction sources.

Key Differences Between Diffraction and Interference

Interference

Diffraction

Interference is the superposition of waves from two distinct sources, producing different wavefronts.

Diffraction is the bending and spreading of waves around obstacles or through apertures, caused by secondary wavelets from different parts of the same wave.

The contrast between maxima and minima in interference is very high.

The contrast between maxima and minima in 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 interference sources if the number of sources is as few as two.

In diffraction, if the number of sources is more than two, the sources are considered diffraction sources.

This comprehensive comparison provides a clear understanding of the differences between Interference and Diffraction. For more detailed information, check out the following resources: You may also find these related links helpful:

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between Diffraction and Interference?

Interference may be defined as waves emerging from two different sources, producing different wavefronts. Diffraction, on the other hand, can be termed as secondary waves that emerge from the different parts of the same wave.

How does the contrast between maxima and minima differ in Diffraction and Interference?

The contrast between maxima and minima is very good in Interference, while it is poor in Diffraction.

How does the width of the fringes differ in Diffraction and Interference?

The width of the fringes in interference is equal, whereas the width of the fringes is not equal in diffraction.

What defines Interference and Diffraction sources?

The sources are referred to as interference sources if the number of sources is as few as two sources. If the number of sources is more than two, the sources are referred to as diffraction sources.