Easy question on diffraction of light

In summary, diffraction of light is the bending and spreading out of light waves as they pass through an opening or around an obstacle. It occurs when the size of the opening or obstacle is comparable to the wavelength of the light, and is affected by the wavelength of the light, the size of the opening or obstacle, and the distance between the light source and the diffracting object. This phenomenon can be observed in everyday life and has many practical applications in science and technology, including in optical instruments, diffraction gratings, and holograms. It is also important in understanding the wave nature of light and electromagnetic radiation.
  • #1
Sabrina_18
8
0
[SOLVED] Easy question on diffraction of light please help!

Homework Statement


Wavelengths are; 1 - 520nm
Wavelength 2 - 520.8nm
Diffraction grating - 400 lines per mm
How many orders will the lines be seen in?


Homework Equations


N = dsin0/lamda


The Attempt at a Solution



d = 1/4 X 10^5 = 25 X10^-7m
25 X 10^-7 / 520 X 10^-9 = 4.8
So is the answer 4? for the first wavelength (520nm)
 
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  • #2
Your work looks good to me.
 
  • #3
I got 4.80769, so your math is correct.
 
  • #4
Thanks - hope its right!
 

1. What is diffraction of light?

Diffraction of light is the bending and spreading out of light waves as they pass through an opening or around an obstacle. This phenomenon is due to the wave nature of light.

2. How does diffraction of light occur?

Diffraction of light occurs when the size of the opening or obstacle is comparable to the wavelength of the light. As the light waves pass through, they bend and spread out, creating a diffraction pattern.

3. What factors affect the diffraction of light?

The three main factors that affect the diffraction of light are the wavelength of the light, the size of the opening or obstacle, and the distance between the light source and the diffracting object.

4. What are some real-life examples of diffraction of light?

Diffraction of light can be observed in everyday life, such as when light passes through a small opening, creating a diffraction pattern on a wall. It is also seen in the rainbow colors produced by a CD or DVD, and in the iridescent colors of soap bubbles.

5. How is diffraction of light useful in science and technology?

Diffraction of light has many practical applications, including in optical instruments such as microscopes and telescopes, in the design of diffraction gratings for spectroscopy, and in the production of holograms. It also plays a crucial role in the study of the wave nature of light and in understanding the behavior of electromagnetic radiation.

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