Calculating Diffraction Orders for a 513 line/mm Grating

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the number of diffraction orders for a diffraction grating with 513 lines/mm when illuminated by light of wavelength 567 nm. Participants are exploring the principles of diffraction and the relevant equations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to calculate the number of diffraction orders using the equation d*sin theta = mt, questioning the validity of their approach without knowing the angle. Some participants discuss the implications of assuming a small angle and the maximum value of sin theta.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, with some providing supportive feedback on the original poster's reasoning. There is a recognition of the need to consider the maximum angle for diffraction orders, but no consensus has been reached on the final answer.

Contextual Notes

The original poster mentions an upcoming test and expresses difficulty in understanding the topic of light, indicating a time constraint and a need for clarification on the concepts involved.

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# of diffraction orders seen?

Homework Statement


A 513 line/mm diffraction grating is illuminated by light of wavelength 567 nm. How many diffraction orders are seen?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


d*sin theta = mt
t = wavelength

m = d*sin theta/t
I don't have the angle so I just omitted it assuming it would be very small and I did...
m = d/t = 3.4 so 3 diffraction orders

Is this correct?
 
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Does anyone know how to do this?
 
The value of sin has to be at a maximum (ie. 1), so the angle is 90 degrees. What you did looks right. If the angle was very small, then m would also be very small.
 
Thank you so much! I have a test on Thursday and I am having a hard time understanding light!
 

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