Light Strands: Visualization of Free Space in Double Slit Diffraction

Abstract

Modern understanding of light has fluctuated between particle and wave theory. The classic double slit experiment provided seemingly conclusive support for wave theory of light with its resultant fringe patterns thought to only be due to wave interference. However, interference junctures of light have never been directly visualized. We investigated the double slit experiment and its fringe pattern through novel techniques of direct visualization of light propagation in the free space after slit exit in order to validate this interference principle. A cloud chamber and gel media were developed to visualize otherwise invisible light pathways. Coherent light was observed in these environments in settings of diffraction, refraction, and reflection. Experimental generation of distinct, isolated light strands after diffraction through double slits were visualized. Discrete light strands, not waves, were noted as light propagated through free space. Light strands were visualized directly creating the pseudo-interference fringe pattern, counter to the concept of wave interference. Novel visualization of light strands supports the particle theory of light and provides an alternative to wave theory. The finding that diffractive fringe patterns and other observations of light can be explained in some situations by the phenomena of discrete radiating strands, not wave interference, may have implications in physics, quantum mechanics, and technology.