Diffraction Experiment - Comparing theory with my data

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on analyzing data from a two-slit diffraction experiment, where the observed minima are shifted towards the origin compared to theoretical predictions. The user expresses uncertainty about the accuracy of their results, suspecting potential errors in measurement. Other participants suggest verifying the values for slit separation and wavelength, as these factors significantly influence the diffraction pattern. The user is less concerned about the minima not being at zero, attributing this to imperfect intensity measurements. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of accurate experimental parameters in diffraction analysis.
poonintoon
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Not sure if this is the right forum for this but I am analysing the data for the diffraction experiment I have just done (laser source at two slit diffraction grating) and have got the graph (similar to this http://www.physics.umd.edu/courses/Phys273/williams06/TwoSlit.jpg" ).
However all the minima for my data have been shifted towards the origin when compared to the theoretical plot. I have been racking my brains but can't think of any convincing reasons why this could happen other than the fact that I got bad results.
The minima are also not at zero but I am less concerned about this since I am assuming this is just down to not getting perfect intensity.

Thanks.
 
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poonintoon said:
However all the minima for my data have been shifted towards the origin when compared to the theoretical plot.
Have you double-checked your values for slit separation and wavelength? (These would obviously affect the width of the pattern.)
 

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