How can I do the double slit experiment with limited resources?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on conducting the Young's double slit experiment using limited resources. The user plans to create slits from aluminum foil, measuring 3 mm across, and has a distance of 7.00 meters for the setup. They require a light source with a wavelength in the hundreds of nanometers range to observe clear interference fringes. Suggestions include utilizing existing setups at nearby universities or secondary schools for practical execution.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Young's double slit experiment
  • Basic knowledge of light wavelengths and interference patterns
  • Familiarity with measuring distances in experimental setups
  • Ability to use tools for cutting materials, such as a razor blade
NEXT STEPS
  • Research suitable light sources for the double slit experiment, focusing on wavelengths in the hundreds of nanometers
  • Explore techniques for creating precise slits in aluminum foil
  • Investigate the mathematical calculations for fringe width and wavelength relationships
  • Contact local educational institutions to inquire about available experimental setups
USEFUL FOR

Physics enthusiasts, students conducting experiments, and educators looking to demonstrate wave-particle duality through the double slit experiment.

rohanprabhu
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The young's double slut experiment is pretty awesome i guess.. i never had thought that light + light could ever equal dark.. so I want to try and do the double slit experiment myself.

For the slits and the curtain.. I'm thinking of using Aluminum foil into which i can cut fine slits with a razor blade. I have around 6-7 meters [lengthwise] free space available. Which makes my D = 7.00 m. If i keep the slits like.. 3 mm across [i doubt if i can get it even that fine].. I get the fringe width as [itex]2333.33\lambda[/itex]. So, what wavelength of light should I use? Also, how can i get such a light source?

The problem is that the wavelength I'm getting so that i can see the fringes clearly is to the order of tens of micrometer.. what i need is something in the order of hundreds of nanometer [i guess].. so.. basically.. I'm missing out on a [or two] factor of ten.

any suggestions?
 
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You might find this PF thread useful, as well as http://www.altair.org/TwoSlit.html .

If you are lazy, you could just contact a nearby university (or maybe even a secondary school) and ask them if you can come by some time and do the experiment... big chance they have the experiment ready-to-go.
 
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