Diffraction pattern of a light beam from a narrow slit

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the diffraction patterns produced by a narrow slit and a thread when illuminated by a laser beam. The professor asserts that the patterns are "totally different," while a student argues they are "completely identical." The consensus leans towards the professor's view, emphasizing that the narrow slit does not create an interference pattern like a double slit would. Additionally, the width of the laser beam influences the diffraction pattern observed in the thread experiment.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of diffraction and interference principles in optics
  • Familiarity with laser beam properties and behavior
  • Knowledge of experimental setups involving narrow slits and threads
  • Basic grasp of wave optics terminology
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the differences between single-slit and double-slit diffraction patterns
  • Explore the impact of beam width on diffraction patterns in optical experiments
  • Study the principles of laser beam coherence and its effects on interference
  • Investigate practical applications of diffraction patterns in optical devices
USEFUL FOR

Students preparing for physics exams, educators teaching wave optics, and anyone interested in the practical applications of diffraction in optical systems.

-Aladdin-
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Actually, I'm studying for my entrance exams to college.
I think the professor made a mistake.
So , the question says :

A diffraction pattern of a light beam from a narrow slit and from a thread are :
a)Completely identical
b)Totally different
c)Identical except for the center.

He choosed b , but I say a .

Who's correct and why , thanks a lot.
 
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-Aladdin- said:
Actually, I'm studying for my entrance exams to college.
I think the professor made a mistake.
So , the question says :

A diffraction pattern of a light beam from a narrow slit and from a thread are :
a)Completely identical
b)Totally different
c)Identical except for the center.

He choosed b , but I say a .

Who's correct and why , thanks a lot.

I have to side with your instructor. The problem statement said "narrow slit" not double slit.

Assuming that both the "narrow slit" and the "thread" experiments involve a culminated laser beam as the light source, will either of them form an "interference" pattern in addition to any diffraction pattern? And when considering the diffraction pattern alone of the thread experiment (ignoring any possible interference pattern, just for the moment), does the width of the laser beam itself play a part in the resultant pattern?
 

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