Diffraction Gratings and Incident Light

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The discussion centers on solving a diffraction grating problem involving the angle of incident light. The key equation to derive is d(sin(θ-η) + sin(η)) = mλ, where m is the order of diffraction, λ is the wavelength, and d is the grating spacing. Participants emphasize the need to apply trigonometric identities, specifically the double angle formula, to manipulate the sine function. There's a consensus that understanding these trigonometric concepts is crucial for tackling the problem effectively. The conversation highlights the importance of foundational knowledge in trigonometry for solving diffraction grating questions.
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Homework Statement


If light incident on a diffraction grating makes an angle η with respect to the normal of the grating, show that mλ=dsinθ becomes d( sin(θ-η) + sin(η) ) = mλ


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The Attempt at a Solution



I haven't done any work with diffraction gratings in a long time so this has thrown me for a loop :/ I can't really start the problem because I don't quite understand where to begin
 
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This question just simply needs the knowledge of double angle formula in trigonometry. You just need to change from sin A to sin(A-n) + sin(n).
So, what's the double angle formula for sin A?
 

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