Find Width of Slit for Diffraction Maxima

In summary, the conversation discusses how to calculate the width of a single slit that diffracts laser light of wavelength 650 nm onto a screen 2.00 m away. The distance between the two first-order maxima on either side of the central peak is 2.05 mm. The conversation includes various equations and attempts at solving the problem, but ultimately it is determined that the maximum of the sinc function is not at m+0.5, and a different equation must be used.
  • #1
Seigi Yokota
3
0

Homework Statement


A single slit diffracts laser light of wavelength 650 nm onto a screen 2.00 m away. The distance between the two first-order maxima on either side of the central peak is 2.05 mm. How wide is the slit?

Homework Equations


a=width of slit
y=distance from central max to specific spot
L=distance of screen from the slit
λ=wavelength of light
sinΘ≈Θ=y/L
minima occurs at: a*sinΘ=mλ
(found on internet) approximation of maxima occurs at: a*sinΘ=(m+.5)λ

The Attempt at a Solution


L=2m
λ=650*10^-9m
each maxima is the same distance from the central maxima so if the distance between the 2 first order maxima is .00205m then
y=.001025m

a*(.001025/2)=(1.5)(650*10^-9)
I found answer to be 0.001902m (wrong)

just in case I decided to try and see using the minima formula a*(.001025/2)=(650*10^-9)
answer :0.001268m (wrong)

any assistance would be great.
 
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  • #2
The maximum of the sinc function is not at m+0.5 . It's close, but not exactly.
 
  • #3
Khashishi said:
The maximum of the sinc function is not at m+0.5 . It's close, but not exactly.
what equation should I use then?
 
  • #4
You differentiate the intensity expression...
 

1. What is "Find Width of Slit for Diffraction Maxima"?

"Find Width of Slit for Diffraction Maxima" is a scientific experiment used to determine the width of a slit that is necessary to produce distinct diffraction patterns on a screen.

2. Why is it important to determine the width of the slit for diffraction maxima?

Knowing the width of the slit for diffraction maxima allows scientists to understand the behavior of light as it passes through narrow openings, which is crucial in fields such as optics and spectroscopy.

3. How is the width of the slit for diffraction maxima calculated?

The width of the slit can be calculated by using the formula w = λL/d, where w is the width of the slit, λ is the wavelength of light, L is the distance from the slit to the screen, and d is the distance between the slits or openings.

4. What factors can affect the accuracy of the "Find Width of Slit for Diffraction Maxima" experiment?

The accuracy of the experiment can be affected by factors such as the quality of the light source, the alignment of the slit and the screen, and the presence of external interference or noise.

5. How can the results of the "Find Width of Slit for Diffraction Maxima" experiment be useful in real-world applications?

The results of this experiment can be applied in various fields, such as designing optical devices, studying the properties of light, and determining the size of microscopic particles. It can also aid in the development of new technologies, such as diffraction-based sensors and detectors.

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