Light Strands not Wave Interference: Clarification of the Double Slit Experiment

Abstract Objective Modern understanding of light has fluctuated between particle and wave theory. The classic double slit experiment provided crucial support of wave theory with its description of wave interference fringe patterns. To our knowledge, no significant study has been performed on light propagation in free space after exiting the slit. To further understand the double slit results we analyzed light behavior in free space using novel visualization techniques.Methods A micro-particle environment was developed that remained transparent to visible light. Coherent light was observed in this environment in settings of diffraction, refraction, and reflection.Results Experimental generation of distinct light strands after diffraction through double slits is visualized. Definitive images of discrete light strands, not waves, were noted as light propagated through free space. Light strands were visualized directly creating the pseudo-interference fringe pattern, refuting the concept of wave interference.Conclusions Novel generation and visualization of light strands confirms the particle theory of light and counters two hundred years of wave doctrine. The finding that diffractive fringe patterns and other observations of light are due to the phenomena of discrete radiating strands, not wave interference, will have implications in physics, quantum mechanics, and technology.