Solve Diffraction Grating for Red & Blue Light [URGENT]

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a diffraction grating problem involving two monochromatic light sources: blue light with a wavelength of 460 nm and red light with a wavelength of 670 nm. The objective is to determine the line density of a diffraction grating required for the second maximum of blue light to coincide with the first maximum of red light.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the standard diffraction grating formula and the relationship between the angles and wavelengths of the light. There are attempts to form equations based on the given conditions, with some participants expressing confusion about the variables involved, particularly the angles.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on how to approach the problem by suggesting the formation of equations based on the diffraction grating formula. There is an indication that multiple interpretations of the problem are being explored, particularly regarding the application of the formula and the values to be used.

Contextual Notes

One participant notes a lack of familiarity with relevant equations, which may impact their ability to engage fully with the problem. There is also a mention of the assumption that the sources are collinear, which affects the incident angles.

InSpiRatioNy
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Diffraction Grating? [URGENT]

Homework Statement


Consider two monochromatic sources of light, blue light of wavelength λb = 460 nm and red light of wavelength 670 nm. The red light is shun upon a diffraction grating of density, nr = 10,000 lines per cm. A diffraction grating with what line density (lines/cm) is required to have the 2nd maximum (m=2) of blue light coincide with the 1stmaximum (m=1) of red light?


Homework Equations


...I don't really know.

The Attempt at a Solution


I really don't have a clue, i don't even know relavant equations!

Please help. THanks
 
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InSpiRatioNy said:
I really don't have a clue, i don't even know relavant equations!
Have you read your course text or class notes?
 


Standard diffraction grating formula:

a(sin\theta_i + sin\theta_m) = m\lambda
where,
a = \frac{1}{N}

theta_i and theta_m are incident and m'th diffracted angles respectively. (Though you don't need them).
Form two equations and solve for N.

I'll leave you to it. I'm off to bed :biggrin:
 


I'm confused, what are theta then? And how should I fit all values of the red and blue light in this formula?
 


Don't overthink this question - it is simpler than you think.
You're told that m=2 for one wavelength must lie on m=1 for another wavelength. (Therefore theta_m will be the same for both wavelengths).
(Note also the incident angles are the same because you assume the sources are collinear).

Form 2 diffraction grating equations given the known variables. Solve for the missing N.
 


I got 7282.6, if it's right...
 


InSpiRatioNy said:
I got 7282.6, if it's right...

lines/cm.
It's what I got too.:smile:
 


Okay Thanks!
 

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