Calculating Wavelength from Double-Slit Interference Pattern

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the wavelength of light used in a double-slit interference experiment with slits spaced 0.21 mm apart and a screen distance of 60 cm. The initial calculation yielded a wavelength of 434 nm, which was identified as incorrect. The user questioned whether the distance of 6.2 mm referred to the distance between the first and second minima, suggesting a potential misinterpretation of the minima spacing in the formula gamma = d/L * Delta y.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of double-slit interference principles
  • Familiarity with the formula gamma = d/L * Delta y
  • Basic knowledge of wavelength calculations in physics
  • Ability to manipulate units in scientific calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the derivation of the double-slit interference formula
  • Study the concept of minima and maxima in interference patterns
  • Learn about the significance of slit separation and screen distance in wavelength calculations
  • Practice additional problems involving wavelength determination from interference patterns
USEFUL FOR

Students studying wave optics, physics educators, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of light interference and wavelength calculations.

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Homework Statement



A double-slit interference pattern is created by two narrow slits spaced 0.21mm apart. The distance between the first and the fifth minimum on a screen 60cm behind the slits is 6.2mm. What is the wavelength of the light used in this experiment?


Homework Equations



gamma = d/L * Delta y

The Attempt at a Solution



delta y = 6.2mm/5 = 1.24*10 ^-3m
gamma = d/L delta y
= (2.1*10^-4m)/0.6m * 1.24*10^-3
= 434nm
but this is incorrect. Where did I go wrong?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
If the 6.2 mm was the distance between the first and second minima, would you say the distance between the minima is Δy = 6.2 mm/2?
 

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