Help with a diffraction grating problem

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a diffraction grating problem involving monochromatic light and the calculation of wavelength based on given parameters, specifically the number of lines per centimeter and the diffraction angle.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the need for consistent units when calculating wavelength, questioning whether to convert the grating spacing to nanometers or leave it in centimeters. There is also a mention of a specific numerical answer, prompting further inquiry into its validity.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with participants providing guidance on unit conversion and expressing uncertainty about the correctness of a proposed answer. Multiple interpretations of the problem setup are being explored.

Contextual Notes

There is a focus on ensuring all measurements are in compatible units for the calculation, with specific attention to the conversion between centimeters and nanometers. The original poster seeks clarification on these unit conversions.

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Homework Statement


Monochromatic light illuminates a diffraction grating having 5950 lines/cm. The diffraction angle for the first order image is 18 degrees. what is the wavelength in nm


Homework Equations


wavelength=D * Sin(Theta


The Attempt at a Solution



So I know theta is 18, and the D is cm over lines so you have to flip 5950 to 1/5950. What I don't know is does this need to be in nm, or can you leave it in cm. Please explain how to do this for me. Thanks in advance
 
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All distances had better be in the same units. Since you want the wavelength in nm, express D in terms of nm. 1 cm = 10-2 m; 1 nm = 10-9 m. So 1 cm equals how many nm?
 
Have you access to the answer
is it 0.520nm?
 
Actually it would be right even if you divide the answer of 1/5950 by hundred to get d in meters then convert the answer to nm
 

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