Double slit problem, finding λ of second laser given data about first laser

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the wavelength of a second laser that aligns its second maximum with the fourth minimum of a first laser in a double-slit interference setup. The first laser has a wavelength of d/8, with d being 0.500 mm, and the participant is concerned about using their last attempt to solve the problem. They initially calculated a wavelength of 1/56 but are unsure due to potential misinterpretation of the minima and maxima relationships. The correct approach involves equating the conditions for both lasers, leading to a necessary correction in their calculations. The participant seeks confirmation on their findings before finalizing their answer.
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Homework Statement



A laser with wavelength d/8 is shining light on a double slit with slit separation 0.500 rm mm. This results in an interference pattern on a screen a distance L away from the slits. We wish to shine a second laser, with a different wavelength, through the same slits.

What is the wavelength λ2 of the second laser that would place its second maximum at the same location as the fourth minimum of the first laser, if d = 0.500 mm?


Homework Equations



http://photo.ringo.com/233/233184793O806463150.jpg

http://photo.ringo.com/233/233184793O806463150.jpg

The Attempt at a Solution



I have only one attempt left, so I used those equations and made them both sin(θ)= ..., and set them equal to each other. I got an answer of 1/56 but I do not want to use it and loose my last attempt and get the problem wrong. can anybody confirm this?

Thanks
 
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i should also add that i got 1/36, but it said that the first minimum corresponds to m=0 not m=1, would this also apply to the maximum? if so, that is how i got 1/56...
 
Since the maxima and the minima are at the same point, dsin\theta for both cases is the same.

For the first case, dsin\theta=2\lambda _1.

For the second case, dsin\theta=\frac{9}{2}\lambda _2 (m=4)

Equate the two and solve, your answer seems to be incorrect.
 
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