Can the Double Slit Experiment Be Reproduced at Home with Simple Materials?

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on the feasibility of reproducing the double slit experiment at home using simple materials. Participants suggest using a laser pointer and various methods for creating slits, including cutting plastic or using soldering tin. A successful homemade setup was described, where slits were created using soldering tin suspended from a thread, resulting in visible interference patterns. The discussion also touches on safety precautions when using lasers and the importance of coherent light sources for observing interference.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic optics principles, particularly diffraction and interference.
  • Familiarity with laser pointers and their properties.
  • Knowledge of materials suitable for creating slits, such as soldering tin or plastic.
  • Awareness of safety measures when working with lasers.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research techniques for creating precise slits for optical experiments.
  • Explore the principles of diffraction and interference in light waves.
  • Investigate the use of different light sources, such as helium-neon lasers, for better results.
  • Learn about safety protocols for using lasers in home experiments.
USEFUL FOR

Students, educators, and hobbyists interested in physics experiments, particularly those exploring wave-particle duality and optical phenomena.

  • #31
@country boy
I know this reply is 6 years late, but I just tried it just now with a cheap laster pointer that is built into a pen and a thick piece of hair and after a while of positioning was successful. just to let you and others know.
 
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  • #32
Pitullie Paul said:
Please help, how wide should the slit be and how far apart.

As close together and as narrow as you can make them. It is easy to make them too wide and too far apart, very difficult to get them close enough and narrow enough.
 
  • #33
I was successful in the end with a cheap pen laser and slots cut in tin foil (aluminium foil). I cut the slots with a scalpel then closed then again to make them small. Lots of fun.
 

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