Find λ of light using a laser beam and a diffraction grating

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the advantages of using class 2 laser light and monochromatic light for measuring the wavelength (λ) of light through a diffraction grating. Monochromatic light, characterized by a single wavelength, enhances the accuracy of fringe distance measurements compared to white light, which contains a spectrum of wavelengths. The use of laser light increases the intensity and brightness of the fringes, facilitating clearer observations. Additionally, the choice of measurement tools, such as a ruler, minimizes uncertainty when calculating the width of maxima between the first and zeroth orders.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of diffraction grating principles
  • Knowledge of monochromatic light properties
  • Familiarity with laser types, specifically class 2 lasers
  • Basic skills in experimental measurement techniques
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of diffraction grating and its applications in optics
  • Study the characteristics and safety guidelines for class 2 lasers
  • Learn about the calculation methods for fringe spacing in laser experiments
  • Explore the differences between monochromatic and polychromatic light in experimental setups
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, optical engineers, and anyone conducting experiments involving light measurement and diffraction techniques.

ephphatha16
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1. What is the advantage of using class 2 laser light?
I would really appreciate if reference source is also given!

Homework Equations


Not needed.[/B]

The Attempt at a Solution


Well, I thought that using monochromatic light would made it easier to measure the distance between fringes. And also, using laser means, that the light fringes formed are bright as laser has high intensity.
Thanks a lot for the phyzzing support! (Ah well, a poor attempt to superimpose physics and fizzing)
 
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What can you say about the wavelength of monochromatic light (vs "regular" light)? How would this help in the experiment?
 
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scottdave said:
What can you say about the wavelength of monochromatic light (vs "regular" light)? How would this help in the experiment?

Monochromatic light has single wavelength while in white light, there's mixture of wavelengths from 400nm-630nm. So I suppose this will help me to measure the distance between the fringes more accurately as the fringes only correspond to one specific wavelength?

Also I have another doubt related with the experiment. To calculate the width of maximas between 1st order and 0th order ruler was used. Why? Is it because it has lesser uncertainty?
 
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