The ratio of intensities of two waves is 16 : 1. If these two are superimposed, What is the ratio of maximum and minimum intensities?

25 : 9

The correct answer is Option (2) → 25 : 9

Given, the ratio of intensitities is 16 : 1.

$\frac{I_1}{I_2}=\frac{16}{1}$ or $\frac{{A_1}^2}{{A_2}^2}=16$ [A = Amplitude]

$⇒\frac{A_1}{A_2}=4$

$\frac{I_{max}}{I_{min}}=\frac{(A_1+A_2)^2}{(A_1-A_2)^2}=\frac{(4A_2+A_2)^2}{(4A_2-A_2)^2}$

$=\frac{25}{9}$