alleryA point source of light is placed at the origin in an isotropic medium. The wavefronts associated with the light are:
APlane wavefronts
BCylindrical wavefronts
CSpherical wavefronts
DParabolic wavefronts
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: C. Spherical wavefronts
For a point source emitting uniformly in all directions, all points at a given distance from the source vibrate in phase
so the locus of constant phase is a sphere.
A line source gives cylindrical wavefronts and a source at infinity (or after a converging lens) gives plane wavefronts.
Keep practising Ray Optics and Optical Instruments
Browse all Ray Optics and Optical Instruments questions for CBSE Class 12 (Science), or explore more Physics topics.
Related questions
Match each optical fiber component with its total internal reflection role:Match each optical aberration with its corrective design:Match each optical instrument with its magnifying power (normal adjustment):Match each optical formula with its refractive relationship:The jelly-like substance behind the eye lens is theWhich structure controls the lens shape for near focus?Which retinal cells respond to low intensity light?Automatic wiper rain sensors rely on which principle?