The *coherence length* describes the maximum distance over which two [[Wave|waves]], e.g. light waves, can maintain a significant correlation (in their [[Phase - Wave|phase]] relationships) before the [[Coherence|coherence]] decreases. It is a crucial measure of the ability of light to produce sharp [[Interference|interference]] patterns and is determined by the bandwidth of the light source. Light with a narrow bandwidth typically has a longer coherence length than broadband light: For example, [[Laser|lasers]] typically have a high coherence length. >[!read]- Further Reading >[!ref]- References