Center of diffraction pattern

In summary, the conversation is discussing the center of a diffraction pattern and how to determine its location. It is mentioned that the central line of the pattern has the smallest width, but it is unclear how to determine the center of the pattern. It is also mentioned that the central maximum of each order has the same width, and for a given order, the central maximum has the largest width. The conversation ends with a request for an equation that shows the central maximum of m=0 has the largest width.
  • #1
Pushoam
962
51

Homework Statement


upload_2018-2-5_13-3-55.png


Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


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I did not understand what is meant by the center of the pattern here.

a) I have ## \delta \theta_{hw} = \frac { \lambda }{Nd \cos{\theta }} ##

For central maximum ## \theta = 0##, so central line has less width than other line. So, the central line is towards left. But, how to decide center of pattern?

b) Since angular half – width is proportional to ## \lambda ## , for less ## \lambda ## , the half – widths of the line will be less.
 

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  • #2
The center of every pattern always has the widest fringe. This is one of the first things you must have learnt. Can you now figure out where is the center?

I'm not too sure about the second question.
 
  • #3
lekh2003 said:
The center of every pattern always has the widest fringe.
How do you get to know this?
If this is true then, the center of the pattern is towards right. Is this correct?
 
  • #4
Pushoam said:
For central maximum θ=0θ=0 \theta = 0, so central line has less width than other line. So, the central line is towards left. But, how to decide center of pattern?
Center of the pattern is the point where the central maximum of diffraction occurs. If this is true, then since the line corresponding to central maximum has the smallest width, the center of the pattern will be towards left. Is this correct?
 
  • #5
Pushoam said:
If this is true, then since the line corresponding to central maximum has the smallest width
What? This line will be the thickest since it is the central maximum. Central maximum. You are under an incorrect assumption. A diffraction grating with monochromatic light will definitely have a the maximum at the center. In multi-wavelength light, the fringes are thicker, but the larger fringes approach the center.
 
  • #6
lekh2003 said:
What? This line will be the thickest since it is the central maximum. Central maximum. You are under an incorrect assumption. A diffraction grating with monochromatic light will definitely have a the maximum at the center. In multi-wavelength light, the fringes are thicker, but the larger fringes approach the center.
Why should line corresponding to central maximum be thickest?

Half – angular width of line is given by ## \delta \theta_{hw} = \frac { \lambda }{Nd \cos{\theta }} ##.

In case of central maximum, ## \theta = 0 ## , so the angular width of central maximum is the smallest. Hence, the line width of the central maximum line is smallest.

The intensity of the central maximum line should be greatest, why should be thickness be greatest?
 
  • #7
Pushoam said:
Why should line corresponding to central maximum be thickest?

Half – angular width of line is given by ## \delta \theta_{hw} = \frac { \lambda }{Nd \cos{\theta }} ##.

In case of central maximum, ## \theta = 0 ## , so the angular width of central maximum is the smallest. Hence, the line width of the central maximum line is smallest.

The intensity of the central maximum line should be greatest, why should be thickness be greatest?
Maybe this thread will help you: https://www.physicsforums.com/threa...tic-light-vs-white-light.729546/#post-4610077
 
  • #8
Simon Bridge said:
images-q-tbn-and9gctuu7mz2usu_3ghof1nmwqckaxzaxjdilrhcmv2ucg7rjptr5d7rw-jpg.jpg
The central maximum of each order is shown to have same width in the above picture. For a given order the central maximum has the largest width.

In the question, I have to compare central maximum of each order. And m = 0 corresponds to the center of the pattern.

Could you please show me the equation which says central maximum of m =0 is has the largest width?
 

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1. What is the center of diffraction pattern?

The center of diffraction pattern refers to the central point of a diffraction pattern, which is formed when a wave of light or other electromagnetic radiation passes through a narrow slit or aperture and spreads out in an interference pattern.

2. How is the center of diffraction pattern determined?

The center of diffraction pattern is determined by the geometry of the diffraction experiment, specifically the distance between the slit or aperture and the screen on which the pattern is observed. The center will be located at the point where the diffracted waves from each side of the slit or aperture intersect.

3. What factors affect the location of the center of diffraction pattern?

The location of the center of diffraction pattern is primarily affected by the wavelength of the incident radiation, the size of the slit or aperture, and the distance between the slit or aperture and the screen on which the pattern is observed. Changes in any of these factors can result in a shift in the location of the center.

4. Why is the center of diffraction pattern important in diffraction experiments?

The center of diffraction pattern is important because it is the starting point for measuring the angles of diffraction. By measuring the distances from the center to the various points on the pattern, scientists can calculate the angles at which the diffracted waves are traveling, which can provide information about the properties of the incident radiation and the diffracting medium.

5. Can the center of diffraction pattern be manipulated?

Yes, the center of diffraction pattern can be manipulated by changing the experimental setup, such as adjusting the distance between the slit or aperture and the screen, or by changing the properties of the incident radiation, such as using a different wavelength. This can be useful in studying the behavior of different types of radiation or in optimizing the diffraction pattern for specific purposes.

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