Find Lambda_2 for Double Slit Interference Pattern

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a double slit interference pattern created by two lasers with different wavelengths. The original poster seeks to find the wavelength of a second laser that aligns its second maximum with the fourth minimum of the first laser's pattern.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to equate the conditions for maxima and minima using the equations for interference patterns. Some participants check the equations provided and clarify the relationship between the maxima and minima of the two lasers.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring the relationships between the wavelengths and their respective positions in the interference pattern. There is an acknowledgment of confusion regarding the dependence on the angle and the need for further clarification on the setup.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of a potential multiplicative factor affecting the original poster's guess for the wavelength of the second laser. The problem context includes specific conditions related to the distances and wavelengths involved, which may influence the interpretation of the equations.

yo_man
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Homework Statement


A laser with wavelength d/8 is shining light on a double slit with slit separation d. 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 (lambda_2) of the second laser that would place its second maximum at the same location as the fourth minimum of the first laser?
Express your answer in terms of d

Homework Equations


I have (dsin(theta)) = 2(lambda_1)
and dsin(theta)= (9/2)(lambda_2)


The Attempt at a Solution



I set the two equations equal to each other, and solve for lambda_2 and get (2/9)dsin(theta), but then it said the answer does not depend on theta.. so I just guessed and put (2/9)d and it said I was off by a multiplicative factor. basically, I'm confused and do not know how to go about solving this problem. please help!
 
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I have (dsin(theta)) = 2(lambda_1)
and dsin(theta)= (9/2)(lambda_2)
Check this.
Second maximum of second laser and fourth minimum of the first laser
 
is it

(2(lambda_2)L)/d = ((4+.5)(d/8)L)/d
 
Yes.
 

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