Diffraction Gratings, confusing question.

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a problem related to diffraction gratings, specifically focusing on the variables involved in the equation for wavelength. Participants are attempting to clarify the meanings of the variables and their respective values in the context of a given setup.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are discussing the definitions of variables such as d (distance between lines), n (order of the line), and x (distance related to the setup). There is confusion regarding the source of certain numerical values and their units. Questions arise about the interpretation of measurements taken from a ruler and the implications of using different types of rulers.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing clarifications and questioning assumptions about the measurements and their relevance to the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding the interpretation of the variables, but there is still uncertainty about the correct values and their application in the equation.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of arbitrary markings on a ruler and the physical distance between etched marks, which may affect the interpretation of the measurements. Participants are also navigating the implications of using different rulers for the measurements involved in the problem.

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Homework Statement



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Homework Equations



λ=xd/nl

The Attempt at a Solution



Im having some difficulty with the variables, is d= lines/m? and n= 27? from the 50 mark to the yellow mark. then x would be 27*(4.35*10^-6) and l would be 100cm=1m ?
 
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d is the distance between lines at the grating.
n is the order of the line. As you have just one line for each color (0 would correspond to light directed towards the tube), it is 1.

then x would be 27*(4.35*10^-6)
That looks like xd, but it has no units and where does the value of 27 come from?

and l would be 100cm=1m ?
Right
 
27 lines from thr 50 to yellow
 
Those are lines on the ruler, they are completely arbitrary (you could use a ruler with mm-marks as well). 13.5cm is the physical quantity, it does not depend on the type of ruler.
 
i just assumed that because of the each etched mark is 4.35*10^-6 apart, so d would be 4.35*10^-6 but x would be that times the 27 lines from the distance from central to the node.

So x =.135m d= 4.35*10^-6 l =1 and n= 1 so really the calculation is (.135*4.35*10^-6) ?
 
With units, yes.

Those lines ~4µm apart are at the diffraction grating, not at the ruler.
 

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