Determining Number of Maxima: 2 Slits & 500 nm Light

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The problem involves determining the number of maxima produced by a double-slit interference pattern with slits separated by 0.260 mm and illuminated by 500 nm light. The equation used is dsinθ = mλ, leading to a calculation of m as 267.82 for each side of the central maximum. Since maxima must be whole numbers, the correct count is 267 on each side plus one central maximum, totaling 535 maxima. The conclusion emphasizes that fractional maxima are not valid, confirming the need for whole numbers in such calculations.
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Homework Statement


Two slits are separated by 0.260 mm. A beam of 500 nm light strikes the slits, producing an interference pattern. Determine the number of maxima observed in the angular range -31.0° < θ < +31.0°.


Homework Equations


i used dsinθ = m(lambda)


The Attempt at a Solution


i used the formula above and got
(.26 x 10^-3)sin(31) = m (500 x 10^-9)

i got m as 267.82, but since there are 267.82 maxima to the right, and 267.82 to the left and one at m=0, that makes for a total number of 536.64 maxima

?
 
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i need to know what if i did anything wrong, or if the book is wrong
 
Hello hodgepodge.The number of maxima must be a whole number eg you may get 267 maxima on one side but not 267.82.
 
werd, thanks
 
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Thread 'Variable mass system : water sprayed into a moving container'

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