Fringe pattern of a vapour lamp

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the fringe pattern produced by a sodium vapour lamp, specifically highlighting its dominant yellow color due to its monochromatic light emission at a specific wavelength. Participants clarify that a sodium vapour lamp alone does not produce fringes without an appropriate experimental setup, such as a double-slit or diffraction grating. The necessity of additional optical components to observe fringe patterns is emphasized, confirming that the lamp's characteristics alone do not suffice for fringe formation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of monochromatic light and its properties
  • Familiarity with interference patterns and fringe formation
  • Knowledge of optical setups, including double-slit experiments
  • Basic principles of sodium vapour lamps and their spectral output
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of interference patterns using double-slit experiments
  • Explore the spectral output of sodium vapour lamps and their applications
  • Learn about optical setups that facilitate fringe observation
  • Investigate the effects of wavelength on fringe spacing in interference patterns
USEFUL FOR

Students studying optics, physics educators, and anyone interested in the practical applications of sodium vapour lamps in interference experiments.

aurao2003
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Homework Statement


Hi
Please, what fringe pattern would be obtained with a sodium vapour lamp?



Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I am guessing that a dominant yellow colour would be obtained. The sodium is almost acting like a monochromatic light and therefore has a particular wavelength. But I am not sure how correct my answer is. Also, what will the sketch look like? Please comment
 
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What is the setup?
You don't have fringes from just a lamp on it's own
 

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