Question

Sketch the wavefront emerging from point source of light and linear source of light like a slit​

Answer 1

Diagram:

The wavefront emerging from

• Point source of light

• Linear source of light

Solution:

First of all, what is a wavefront ?

• Wavefront is a position where all the particles of a wave are in the same phase.

Now, let's consider a point source:

• The waves will be radiating outwards from the source in 3 dimensions.

• So, we will be able to imagine a spherical wavefront where all the medium particles will be in the same phase.

• Refer to 1st Diagram.

Now, let's consider a linear source:

• Just like a Gaussian Surface around a wire, we can imagine a cylindrical wavefront around the linear source of wave. Medium particles on this imaginary cylinder will be in the same phase.

• Refer to 2nd diagram.

$\star$ Hope It Helps.