Calculating Number of Fringes with Wavelength and Slit Width

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the number of dark fringes produced by light with a wavelength of 553 nm incident on a single slit with a width of 5.1 x 10-6 m. The formula used is sin(theta) = m (lambda / W), where lambda represents the wavelength, W is the slit width, and m is the number of fringes. Participants confirmed that dividing the slit width by the wavelength accurately determines how many wavelengths fit through the slit, thus providing the correct number of fringes. This method is validated as a reliable approach for fringe calculation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave optics principles
  • Familiarity with the concept of diffraction
  • Knowledge of the sine function in trigonometry
  • Basic grasp of fringe patterns in single-slit experiments
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the single-slit diffraction formula
  • Learn about the impact of slit width on diffraction patterns
  • Explore the relationship between wavelength and fringe spacing
  • Investigate advanced topics in wave optics, such as multi-slit interference
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Students and educators in physics, optical engineers, and anyone interested in understanding diffraction patterns and wave behavior in optics.

StudentofPhysics
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1. How many dark fringes will be produced on either side of the central maximum if light ( = 553 nm) is incident on a single slit that is 5.1 10-6 m wide?



2. sin theta = m (lamba/ W)

lamba = wavelength
W = slit width
m - number of fringes



3. I have no idea how to do this without at least an L or theta.

Does anyone know what I am to do?
 
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ok, i decided to try the slit width divided by the wavelength. This gave me the correct answer.

Is this because this is a way to determine how many wavelengths will fit through the slit and therefore how many fringes there will be?

I just want to make sure I am using a correct theory here and that I did not just get lucky.
 

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