Distance between two second order maxima

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the distance between two second-order maxima in a diffraction grating setup involving monochromatic light. The relevant parameters include a screen distance of 1.99 m and a first-order maxima separation of 1.36 m. The key equations utilized are d sinθ = mλ and y = L tanθ, where d is the grating spacing, m is the order of the maxima, and λ is the wavelength of light. The solution involves using trigonometric relationships to derive the angle θ and subsequently calculate the distance between the second-order maxima.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of diffraction grating principles
  • Familiarity with trigonometric functions and relationships
  • Knowledge of the equations for maxima in wave optics
  • Basic skills in algebra for solving equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the diffraction grating equation d sinθ = mλ
  • Learn how to apply trigonometric functions in optics problems
  • Explore the concept of order of maxima in wave interference
  • Investigate practical applications of diffraction gratings in optical devices
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on optics and wave phenomena, as well as educators looking for examples of diffraction grating applications.

kuzco890
Messages
3
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


Monochromatic light strikes a diffraction grating at normal incidence before illuminating a screen 1.99 m away. If the first-order maxima are separated by 1.36 m on the screen, what is the distance between the two second-order maxima?


Homework Equations


I think these are the relevant equations:
deltaL = dsinθ
y = Ltanθ


The Attempt at a Solution


L = 1.99 m
I'm not sure where the 1.36 and 1.99 come in.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
So I only need the d sinθ = mλ equation?
Would you be able to help walk me through it?
I feel like I need the y = Ltanθ or deltaL = dsinθ equation.
Doesn't L = 1.36 for the first order maxima?
d = 1.99 m
m = 2?
 
Draw the triangle with theta, x (distance from center to maximum - half the 1.36), L (L is the hypotenuse), and the 1.99 m distance to the screen. Use the triangle and some trig to find theta.

Use the formula to find lambda/d. This value doesn't change as you move to 2nd order, so you can use the formula again with this value to find theta when m = 2.
 
Thanks!
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
995
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
5K
Replies
14
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
11K
Replies
16
Views
5K
Replies
8
Views
2K