Find Sin θ and D in Diffraction Equation

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the values of "sinθ" and "d" in the context of the diffraction equation, specifically using the formula n(lambda) = d(sinθ). Participants explore the relationships between the given variables and how to apply trigonometric principles to solve the problem.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant states the formula n(lambda) = d(sinθ) and provides specific values for n, length, width, and hypotenuse.
  • Another participant clarifies how to find the angle θ using the inverse sine function, suggesting θ = sin-1(x).
  • A participant calculates sinθ as the ratio of the opposite side (width) to the hypotenuse, yielding sinθ = 42.5/337.8, which they approximate as 0.126.
  • There is a query about how to solve for "d" using the equation (n)(lambda) = (d)(sinθ), with lambda given as 650.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of clarifying the definitions of W and d in the context of the equation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the approach to finding sinθ and using it in the diffraction equation, but there is some uncertainty regarding the definitions of W and d, which remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the clarity of variable definitions and the assumptions regarding the relationships between the sides of the triangle involved in the diffraction context.

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Homework Statement


I have to find "sinθ" and "d" in the diffraction equation.

Homework Equations


The formula is n(lambda) = d(sinθ)
I have the n, length, width, and hypotenuse.
http://img81.imageshack.us/my.php?image=captureee1.jpg
n=1, L=335 W=42.5 hyp=337.8

The Attempt at a Solution


I forgot how to get the angle for sin. So I'm pretty much stuck.
 
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magma_saber said:
I have to find "sinθ" and "d" in the diffraction equation.

The formula is n(lambda) = d(sinθ)
I have the n, length, width, and hypotenuse.
http://img81.imageshack.us/my.php?image=captureee1.jpg
n=1, L=335 W=42.5 hyp=337.8

…I forgot how to get the angle for sin. So I'm pretty much stuck.

Hi magma_saber! Welcome to PF! :smile:

Do you mean that if you have, say sinθ = x, you want to get θ as a function of x?

If so, the solution is θ = sin-1x (also written arcsin(x)), which most electronic calculators will do … alternatively, use sine tables "backwards"! :wink:

Or am I misunderstanding the problem? :confused:
 
I got sinθ. In my book it says sinθ = opposite over hypotenuse. By doing that i got 42.5/337.8. so sinθ should equal 0.126 right?
Now how do i get "d"? The equation is (n)(lambda)=(d)(sinθ). lambda is 650 btw.
So would this be the equation?
(1)(650)=d(sin0.126)
 
anyone?
 
magma_saber said:
I got sinθ. In my book it says sinθ = opposite over hypotenuse. By doing that i got 42.5/337.8. so sinθ should equal 0.126 right?
Now how do i get "d"? The equation is (n)(lambda)=(d)(sinθ). lambda is 650 btw.
So would this be the equation?
(1)(650)=d(sin0.126)

Hi magma_saber! :smile:

I think people have been avoiding answering because you haven't made it clear what W and d are. :confused:

If the correct equation is (n)(lambda)=(d)(sinθ), and if W and hyp are the correct opposite and hypotenuse, then 650 = d times 0.126. :smile:

(not sin(0.126) … 0.126 is the sin :wink:)
 
thanks i got it now.
 

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