Calculating Wavelength for Diffraction Grating Problem

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the distance of the first order maximum for light of 625 nm using a diffraction grating setup where light of 475 nm produces a maximum at 0.214 m. The user attempts to apply the formula for diffraction, rearranging it to find the unknown distance for the second wavelength. The calculation yields a distance of 0.282 m, which is confirmed as correct based on the principles of diffraction and the relationship between wavelength and distance in such setups.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of diffraction grating principles
  • Familiarity with the formula for calculating maxima in diffraction patterns
  • Knowledge of wavelength measurement in nanometers
  • Basic algebra for rearranging equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the diffraction grating formula: d sin(θ) = nλ
  • Learn about the relationship between wavelength and distance in diffraction patterns
  • Explore examples of calculating maxima for different wavelengths
  • Investigate the effects of varying slit spacing on diffraction patterns
USEFUL FOR

Students studying optics, physics educators, and anyone interested in understanding diffraction phenomena and calculations related to light wavelengths.

kraphysics
Messages
41
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


Light with a wavelength of 475 nm produces a first order maximum 0.214 m from the central bright line for a particular diffraction apparatus. At what distance would you expect a maximum using light of 625 nm?


The Attempt at a Solution



I am confused. For some reason my intuition tells me to do this:

(475 * 10^9 m)/ 0.214 m = (625 * 10^-9 m) / x

I get 0.282 m. Is this right?
I don't know of any other way of doing this because none of the formulas make sense. There isn't enough information.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
It seems reasonable and there isn't much info. given.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
1K
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
10
Views
3K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
27K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K