Why does slit diffraction occur?

In summary, the conversation discusses the topic of diffraction and its relationship to Bragg diffraction. It is clarified that slit diffraction is caused by scattering due to Huygens principle and is independent of the material properties of the slits. The conversation also touches on the topic of interference between electromagnetic waves and it is stated that after separation, the waves continue as if they had never encountered each other.
  • #1
CrimpJiggler
149
1
Is it the same thing as Bragg diffraction, in the sense that it is caused by the photons being scattered in different directions when it hits the atoms of the solid material around the slit?
 
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  • #3
No, slit diffraction is independent of the properties of the material on which the slits are built (As long as the material blocks the radiation from passing right through it.). Slit diffraction happens as a consequence of scattering due to Huygens principle which states that any point in a wave can be taken as a point source for new waves.
 
  • #4
Ah yeah I was thinking of x-rays which are scattered by electron clouds. Huygens principle, thanks.
 
  • #5
A side question: When two electromagnetic waves interfere, is the change in amplitude permanent, meaning will they still have altered amplitudes even when they are no longer near each other?
 
  • #6
No, after the two waves "separate", they continue as if they had never encountered each other.
 

1. Why does slit diffraction occur?

Slit diffraction occurs because light behaves as a wave and when it passes through a narrow opening, it spreads out or diffracts. This is a fundamental property of waves and can be observed with any type of wave, not just light.

2. How does the width of the slit affect diffraction?

The width of the slit directly affects the amount of diffraction that occurs. A narrower slit will result in more diffraction, while a wider slit will result in less diffraction. This is because a narrower slit causes more bending or spreading of the light waves, while a wider slit allows the waves to pass through with less disturbance.

3. What is the relationship between wavelength and slit diffraction?

The relationship between wavelength and slit diffraction is inversely proportional. This means that as the wavelength of light decreases, the amount of diffraction increases. Therefore, shorter wavelengths of light, such as blue or violet, will exhibit more diffraction than longer wavelengths, such as red or orange.

4. Can slit diffraction be observed with all types of light?

Yes, slit diffraction can be observed with all types of light, including visible light, infrared light, and ultraviolet light. It can also be observed with other types of waves, such as sound waves and water waves.

5. How is slit diffraction used in everyday life?

Slit diffraction is used in everyday life in various technologies, such as cameras, telescopes, and microscopes. It is also used in diffraction gratings, which are used to separate different wavelengths of light, such as in spectrometers. Additionally, slit diffraction is used in optical illusions and artistic techniques, such as creating a rainbow effect with a CD or DVD.

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