Bright Fringes (Intro to Quantum Physics Qestion?)

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the spacing between the central bright fringe and the first-order fringe in a double-slit experiment using the formula xm = mλL/d. The correct values are L = 2.5m (distance to the screen) and d = 0.05mm (distance between the slits), with a wavelength (λ) of 580nm. The correct calculation yields a spacing of 0.0029m, correcting the initial confusion between L and d.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of double-slit experiments in quantum physics
  • Familiarity with the formula xm = mλL/d for fringe spacing
  • Basic knowledge of unit conversions, particularly between millimeters and meters
  • Concept of wavelength in the context of light (580nm in this case)
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of wave interference in quantum physics
  • Learn about the significance of fringe patterns in optics
  • Explore unit conversion techniques for scientific calculations
  • Investigate the effects of different wavelengths on fringe spacing
USEFUL FOR

Students studying quantum physics, particularly those in AP Physics courses, as well as educators looking to clarify concepts related to wave interference and fringe calculations.

megaoka
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Homework Statement


The distance between two slits is 0.05mm and the distance to the screen is 2.5m. What is the spacing between the central bright fringe and the first-order fringe? Use yellow light with a wavelength of 580nm


Homework Equations


xm=mλL/d


The Attempt at a Solution


L=0.5mm d=2.5m λ=580nm
xm=(1)(580x10-9)/(.5x10-3) = .00116m
(all the numbers were converted to meters)

Whenever I plug these problems in, I get a strange answer that isn't anywhere near the multiple choice answers. What am I doing wrong?

Multiple choice answer possibilities:
a) 0.01m
b) 0.029m
c) 0.29
d) 0.1m
e) 0.6m
I don't want the answer, I want to know what I did wrong here. If you get the right answer, please help!
Cheers,
~a distressed AP student
 
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Hi megoka,

You mixed up L and d. L is the distance to the screen 2.5 m, and d is the space between the slits 0.05 mm.
 
d=0.5mm L=2.5m λ=580nm
xm=mλL/d

x=(1)(580x10^-9)(2.5)/(0.5x10^-3)=.0029
Okay!

Thanks! I got my answer.
 
Last edited:

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