# Can I think Transverse Modes in optical waveguides as an contructive interference phenomenon?

I am studying about Transverse Modes formations in optical waveguides.

Q1.

I got an impressions that this is a constuctive interference phenomenon. while waves that have phase difference 2pi*m; for m = 0,1,2,... will have constructive interference and forming modes, other waves that does not fulfill that phase "rule" will interfere each other destructively.

is it a correct understanding?

EDIT: at certain incoming angles $$\theta$$, constructive interferences happen in the waveguide. this what we call as modes. while at other angle, the interference is destructive.

Q2.

I also got an impressions that there are two ways of explaining it, one from solving the Maxwell Eqs, the other one is by using that phase different rule.

is my conclusion correct that there two ways to explaining it?

• Huygens' principle allows you to consider all wave phenomena in more than one dimension in terms of interference. The question to ask yourself is "What do I gain by thinking about it this way?". (Not having studied this subject in these terms; nor in decades in any terms, I can't suggest an answer.) – dmckee Jul 8 at 17:41
• hmm..maybe i was not clear. I am not trying to make a new interpretation. that was just my interpretation during studying. to answer your question, I would say "because I do not know the other way". If you know the correct way, I would be happy to learn it. – Codelearner777 Jul 8 at 17:44
• in the transverse directions standing waves are formed – user47014 Jul 8 at 17:59
• @user47014, yes. that is what I meant. so at certain incoming angle, the wave in the waveguide fullfill phase different rule. it produces a constructive interference. then we a mode from this angle. is it correct understanding? – Codelearner777 Jul 8 at 18:22
• @Codelearner777 Standing wave patterns are formed by multiply reflected wave interference – user47014 Jul 8 at 18:49