Solve Diffraction Grating Homework: Freq, Spacing, Angle

In summary, to calculate the grate spacing, we use the formula 1/500,000 giving a result of 2 x 10^-6. For the angle of the first order, we use the formula sin∅ = wavelength/grate spacing, which becomes sin∅ = 600nm/2 x 10^-6m, giving a result of 0.3. To find the angle, we use the inverse Sin function and get 17.48 degrees. Lastly, to find the frequency of the light, we use the formula c=fλ, which becomes f = 3 x 10^8 m/s / 600nm, giving a result of 5 x 10^
  • #1
jendrix
122
4

Homework Statement



The number of lines per metre in a grating is 500,000, calculate grate spacing.

The wavelength of light going through the grating is 600nm, what is the angle of the first order?

What is the frequency of the light is it's speed is 3 x 10^8 m/s?

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



For 1 I did 1/500,000 giving 2 x 10^6 m/s

2)Using dsin=nλ

I rearranged to give sin = 600/2 x 10^6 which gave me 0.861

Should I have converted the 600 into metres and used 6x10^-7?

3) Using c=fλ

3x10^8 = f x 600

f = 500,000 Again should I have converted the 600nm into meters?Thanks for looking
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
You are on the right track but you have made mathematical mistakes.
1/500000 is 2x10^-6
You must change nm into m
Hope this helps
 
  • #3
Thank you, so for no 1 I have

1/500,000 = 2 x 10^-6


2)sin =6 x 10^-7 / 2 x 10^-6

This gives 0.3 but should this be multiplied by inverse sin to give 17.48?


3) 3 x 10^8 / 6 x 10^-7 = 5 x 10^14

Do these look ok?

Thanks
 
  • #4
In part 2 you have calculated that Sin∅ = 0.3 so yes!... you need to use the inverse Sin function on your calculater to find the angle Make certain that you have your calculater set to
degrees not radians.:wink:
In part 3 you have not given any units... you must do this to produce a complete answer.
Other than these details you are OK
 
  • #5
Excellent, really appreciate the help:smile:
 
  • #6
:zzz:so the units are ?
 
  • #7
:smile:Sorry it's Hz
 

What is a diffraction grating?

A diffraction grating is an optical device that consists of a large number of parallel, equally spaced slits or grooves on a surface. When light passes through the grating, it is dispersed into its constituent wavelengths, creating a spectrum of colors.

How do I calculate the frequency of a diffraction grating?

The frequency of a diffraction grating can be calculated by dividing the number of lines or slits on the grating by the total distance between them. This value is also known as the grating spacing or grating constant.

What is the relationship between grating spacing and diffraction angle?

The grating spacing and the diffraction angle are inversely proportional to each other. This means that as the grating spacing increases, the diffraction angle decreases and vice versa.

How can I determine the diffraction angle of a specific wavelength using a diffraction grating?

The diffraction angle for a specific wavelength can be determined by using the equation d sinθ = mλ, where d is the grating spacing, θ is the diffraction angle, m is the order of the diffraction (usually an integer), and λ is the wavelength of the light. Rearranging the equation, we can find the diffraction angle (θ) by taking the inverse sine (sin-1) of the quantity (mλ)/d.

What is the difference between a transmission and reflection diffraction grating?

A transmission diffraction grating allows light to pass through the slits or grooves, while a reflection diffraction grating reflects light off the surface of the grating. The calculation for the diffraction angle is slightly different for each type of grating, but the principles of diffraction are the same.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
10
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
6K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
25K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
5K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
941
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
6K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
4K
Back
Top