Which of the following is conserved when light waves interfere

Options

A. Intensity
B. Energy
C. Amplitude
D. Momentum

Answer

To solve the question "Which of the following is conserved when light waves interfere?", we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Understand the Concept of Interference
Interference occurs when two or more light waves overlap and combine to form a new wave pattern. This can result in areas of constructive interference (where the waves add together) and destructive interference (where the waves cancel each other out).

**Hint:** Consider how waves interact with each other and what happens to their energy during this process.

### Step 2: Identify the Conservation Principles
In physics, certain quantities are conserved in closed systems. For waves, particularly light waves, we need to consider what happens during interference.

**Hint:** Think about the fundamental laws of physics that apply to energy and waves.

### Step 3: Analyze Energy Redistribution
During interference, the total energy of the system remains constant. While the intensity of light may vary (some areas may be brighter and others darker), the overall energy does not increase or decrease. It is simply redistributed between different regions.

**Hint:** Reflect on the law of conservation of energy and how it applies to wave phenomena.

### Step 4: Conclusion
From the analysis, we conclude that energy is conserved during the interference of light waves. The intensity can vary, but the total energy remains constant.

**Final Answer:** Energy is conserved when light waves interfere.

---