How Is the Diffraction Angle Calculated for Different Wavelengths?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the diffraction angle for different wavelengths using a grating. The original poster presents a specific problem involving a spectral line of wavelength 681 nm and seeks to find the angle for a different wavelength of 439 nm in second order.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between grating and double slit diffraction, with one suggesting that the same principles apply. There is an attempt to determine the distance between slits in the grating based on known wavelength information.

Discussion Status

The conversation has seen some productive exchanges, with participants offering insights on how to approach the problem. However, there remains a lack of explicit consensus on the details of the calculations and the interpretation of certain terms, such as "distance between the two waves."

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the complexities of diffraction problems, particularly in distinguishing between different setups and ensuring clarity in terminology. There is an indication of uncertainty regarding the application of equations in this context.

MarcL
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Homework Statement



A grating places a spectral line of wavelength 681 nm at 12 degrees in first order. At what angle is a line of wavelength 439 nm observed in second order?

Homework Equations



I believe dsinθ= mλ


The Attempt at a Solution



This is where I get lost, I can solve for every problem in difraction ( We did Rayleigh's criterion, double slit / single slit difraction) but I can't seem to be able to start a problem that involves grating, any pointers on how to start would be nice ^^ I just want to know how to approach the problem! :)
 
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As far as finding the angles for the bright fringes, there is no difference between a grating and a double slit.

One approach to this problem would be to use the information about the 681 nm line to determine the distance d between two slits in the grating.
 
Ah, it worked. Thanks a lot ^^ Just a little question, if you don't mind answering it of course. If ever it asked me to look for the distance between the two waves, would I need to compare the equations or something?
 
MarcL said:
Ah, it worked.
Good!

MarcL said:
If ever it asked me to look for the distance between the two waves, would I need to compare the equations or something?

I'm not sure what you mean by "distance between the two waves". Can you clarify that?
 

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