Double slit experiment distance

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the double slit experiment, specifically focusing on how changes in slit separation affect the distance between adjacent maxima observed on a screen. Participants are exploring the implications of halving the slit separation on the fringe width.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning how the distance between maxima changes when the slit separation is altered. There is a discussion about whether the distance will double or quadruple when the slit separation is halved.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights into the relationship between slit separation and fringe width, referencing the formula for fringe width. However, there is still uncertainty regarding the exact outcome of halving the slit separation, with differing opinions on the resulting distance between maxima.

Contextual Notes

Participants are considering the implications of the formula for fringe width and the variables involved, such as wavelength and distance to the screen. There may be assumptions about the experimental setup that are not fully articulated.

ksn
Messages
4
Reaction score
0
In a double slit experiment it is observed that the distance between adjacent maxima on a remote screen is 1cm. Whats happens to the distance between adjacent maxima when the slit separation is cut in half?
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
As the slit separation decreases, the pattern on the screen spreads out. Look up Young's double slit experiment.
 
SO when the distance is cut in half the screen size will go from 1cm to 2cm or will it go to 4cm ?
 
We have the formula for fringe width as

[tex]\omega = \lambda D/d[/tex]

D= distance between slits and screen
d= width of slits
[tex]\omega= fringe width[/tex]
[tex]\lambda= wavelength of light used[/tex]
 
Last edited:

Similar threads

  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
13
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
5K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
8K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
3K