Calculating Angular Width of Central Maximum in Wave Diffraction

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To calculate the angular width of the central maximum in wave diffraction, the relevant formula is sin(theta) = (n * lambda) / d, where lambda is the wavelength, d is the width of the gap, and n is the order of the minimum. In this case, with a wavelength of 2m and a gap width of 10m, the first-order minimum corresponds to n=1. The discussion clarifies that this is a single gap problem, distinct from a two-slit interference scenario, although the formulas can appear similar. Understanding the distinction helps simplify the calculation of the angular separation from the central maximum to the first-order minimum. The process is confirmed to be easier than initially perceived.
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Waves with wavelength 2m pass through a hole in a barrier 10m wide. Compute the angular width of the central maximum.

I'm not sure what I am finding here. Is it the angel between the central maximum and the 1st nodal line?...If so am I treating this like a 2 point source problem?

Any help would be great!
 
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This is a "single gap" problem, but the formula is (sometimes) identical to the 2-slit problem. With a single gap, the angular separation from central maximum to the first-order minimum is given with the formula sin theta = (n lambda) / d .

Here d is the width of the gap and n is the "order" (one in this case).

With 2-slit interference, d is the separation of the slits, and theta gives you the angular position of the first order maximum.
 
ahh thanks...easier than I thought.
 

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