Fraunhofer (far field) diffraction

In summary, the spatial distribution of optical intensities in the far field region is influenced by the location of the delta function, with two equidistant delta functions in opposite quadrants resulting in an interference pattern.
  • #1
Flexington
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Im having difficulties showing the spatial distribution of optical intensities observed in the far field region, due to fraunhofer diffraction.

I have an arpeture function that is in the form of a delta functon, and i understand that with the delta function situated at the origin the observed intensity in the xy plane is the 2d fourer transform of the delta function.
However, how does this vary if the delta function moves away from the origin, and specifically with 2 delta functions equidistant from the origin that are in opposite quadrants?

Any input would be appreciated
 
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  • #2
. If the delta function is located at a distance from the origin, the far-field spatial distribution of optical intensities will be affected. Specifically, if two delta functions are located in opposite quadrants, they will produce two point sources of light in the far field that are 180 degrees out of phase with each other. The resulting intensity in the far field will be the sum of the amplitudes of the two point sources, which will create an interference pattern that is dependent on the distance between the two delta functions.
 

What is Fraunhofer (far field) diffraction?

Fraunhofer diffraction is a type of diffraction that occurs when a wave passes through a narrow slit and produces a diffraction pattern on a screen placed far away from the slit. It is also known as far field diffraction because the distance between the slit and the screen is large compared to the size of the slit.

What is the difference between Fraunhofer diffraction and Fresnel diffraction?

The main difference between Fraunhofer and Fresnel diffraction is the distance between the source of the wave and the screen where the diffraction pattern is observed. In Fraunhofer diffraction, this distance is large compared to the size of the slit, while in Fresnel diffraction, the distance is relatively small. This results in different diffraction patterns and mathematical equations to describe them.

What factors affect the diffraction pattern in Fraunhofer diffraction?

The main factors that affect the diffraction pattern in Fraunhofer diffraction are the size of the slit, the wavelength of the wave, and the distance between the slit and the screen. The larger the slit, the narrower the central maximum of the diffraction pattern will be. The shorter the wavelength, the wider the central maximum will be. And the farther the distance, the smaller the overall size of the diffraction pattern will be.

How is Fraunhofer diffraction used in scientific research?

Fraunhofer diffraction is used in various fields of science, such as physics, optics, and acoustics, to study the properties of waves and their interactions with different objects. It is also used in the analysis of crystal structures, the study of diffraction gratings, and the design of optical instruments such as telescopes and microscopes.

What are some real-world applications of Fraunhofer diffraction?

Fraunhofer diffraction has many practical applications, including in the field of optics for the design of optical instruments such as cameras, telescopes, and microscopes. It is also used in the analysis of crystal structures in materials science and in the study of diffraction gratings for the production of holograms and other optical devices. Additionally, Fraunhofer diffraction is used in the field of acoustics for the design of sound amplification and filtering systems.

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