Find Distance for 1.2cm Circular Diffraction Pattern

The conversation is about finding the correct distance from the pinhole to the viewing screen in order to photograph a circular diffraction pattern with a specific central maximum diameter using a helium-neon laser and a pinhole. The person providing the attempted solution is using the equation Y = λx/b, but this equation does not apply to circular apertures. Therefore, the answer of 1.23m is incorrect. The correct method for solving this problem is to use a different equation or to check the lecture notes for the correct formula.
  • #1
Plasmosis1
17
0

Homework Statement



You want to photograph a circular diffraction pattern whose central maximum has a diameter of 1.2cm . You have a helium-neon laser (λ=633nm) and a 0.13-mm-diameter pinhole. How far behind the pinhole should you place the viewing screen?

Homework Equations



Y = λx/b
Y=radius of central maximum
b= slit diameter
x=distance from screen

The Attempt at a Solution



.012/2=633e-9*x/0.00013
x=1.23m <--- This answer is wrong. I don't know why.
 
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  • #2
Plasmosis1 said:

Homework Statement



You want to photograph a circular diffraction pattern whose central maximum has a diameter of 1.2cm . You have a helium-neon laser (λ=633nm) and a 0.13-mm-diameter pinhole. How far behind the pinhole should you place the viewing screen?

Homework Equations



Y = λx/b
Y=radius of central maximum
b= slit diameter
x=distance from screen

The Attempt at a Solution



.012/2=633e-9*x/0.00013
x=1.23m <--- This answer is wrong. I don't know why.


The equation does not hold for a circular aperture. See http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/phyopt/cirapp2.html#c2 or check your lecture notes.

Y =1.22 λx/b

ehild
 

What is a "1.2cm circular diffraction pattern"?

A 1.2cm circular diffraction pattern is a phenomenon that occurs when light is passed through a small circular aperture, causing the light waves to diffract and form a pattern of concentric circles on a screen or surface. This is a common occurrence in optics and can be observed in various experiments and real-life situations.

How is the distance for a 1.2cm circular diffraction pattern calculated?

The distance for a 1.2cm circular diffraction pattern can be calculated using the formula d = λD/2a, where d is the distance between the center of the pattern and the first dark ring, λ is the wavelength of the light, D is the distance between the aperture and the screen, and a is the diameter of the aperture.

What factors can affect the distance for a 1.2cm circular diffraction pattern?

The distance for a 1.2cm circular diffraction pattern can be affected by several factors such as the wavelength of the light, the size of the aperture, and the distance between the aperture and the screen. Other factors that can influence the pattern include the intensity and polarization of the light, as well as any obstructions in the path of the light.

Why is the distance for a 1.2cm circular diffraction pattern important in scientific research?

The distance for a 1.2cm circular diffraction pattern is important in scientific research because it can provide valuable information about the properties of light and the characteristics of the aperture. It is also a useful tool for measuring small distances and can be used in various experiments and applications in fields such as optics, astronomy, and microscopy.

Can the distance for a 1.2cm circular diffraction pattern be altered or manipulated?

Yes, the distance for a 1.2cm circular diffraction pattern can be manipulated by changing the variables in the formula (d = λD/2a) such as the wavelength of the light, the size of the aperture, and the distance between the aperture and the screen. However, the overall pattern and characteristics of the diffraction pattern will still remain the same.

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