First-Order Spectrum Width for Diffraction Grating

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the width of the first-order spectrum for white light diffracted by a grating with 7510 lines/cm. Participants analyze the angles for wavelengths of 405 nm and 760 nm, using the formula sin(theta) = (m * wavelength) / grating spacing. There is confusion regarding the multiplication by 2, with some suggesting it is necessary for large angles, while others question its validity. The correct approach involves finding the maxima locations for each wavelength and subtracting them to determine the spectrum width. Ultimately, clarity is needed on the correct application of formulas and calculations to achieve accurate results.
lovelylm1980
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White light containing wavelengths from 405 nm to 760 nm falls on a grating with 7510 lines/ cm. How wide is the first-order spectrum on a screen 2.29 m away?

Is this correct

sin theta= (1)*(4.05e-7m)/(1.33e-6m)= 0.305 theta=17.8
location= 2x(tan 17.8)= (2*2.29)*0.321=1.47m

sin theta= (1)*(7.60e-7m)/(1.33e-6m)= 0.571 theta=34.8
location= 2x(tan 34.8)= (2*2.29)*0.695= 3.18m

so then should the answer to the question be
3.18m+1.47m/2= 2.33m
 
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lovelylm1980 said:
location= 2x(tan 17.8)= (2*2.29)*0.321=1.47m
Why did you multiply by 2?
 
so then should i multiply the angle by 2
 
Why are you multiplying anything by 2??
 
because the book states that with large angles you should multiply by two either way I don't get the correct answer based on the formula i used. Whether I multiply by 2 or not the answer still seems to be wrong. Am I not supposed to add at the end then divide by two for the answer?
 
lovelylm1980 said:
because the book states that with large angles you should multiply by two either way I don't get the correct answer based on the formula i used. Whether I multiply by 2 or not the answer still seems to be wrong. Am I not supposed to add at the end then divide by two for the answer?
That makes no sense.

Find the location of the first order maxima for each wavelength. Subtract those two numbers and you'll have the width of the first order spectrum.
 
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