How to calculate slit separation?

  • Thread starter Thread starter ipodmypod300
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Separation Slit
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the slit separation in a double-slit interference experiment using light of wavelength 680 nm. The fourth-order fringe is located 38 mm from the central fringe on a screen 2.0 m away. The correct formula, d * sin(theta) = m * lambda, was applied, but the angle calculation was misinterpreted. The accurate slit separation is determined to be 0.085 mm, contrasting with the incorrect calculation of 1.41 x 10^-4 m derived from an erroneous angle of 1.1 degrees.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of double-slit interference patterns
  • Familiarity with the wavelength of light and its units
  • Knowledge of trigonometric functions, specifically sine and tangent
  • Ability to manipulate and rearrange equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the double-slit interference formula, d * sin(theta) = m * lambda
  • Learn how to accurately calculate angles in interference patterns using trigonometric identities
  • Explore the concept of fringe spacing in interference experiments
  • Investigate common sources of error in experimental physics calculations
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on wave optics, as well as educators and anyone involved in teaching or learning about interference patterns and slit experiments.

ipodmypod300
Messages
2
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


Light of wavelength 680 nm falls on two slits and produces an interference pattern in which the fourth order fringe is 38 mm from the central fringe on a screen 2.0 m away. What is the separation of the two slits?

Homework Equations


d * sin(theta) = m * lambda

The Attempt at a Solution


I tried to calculate the slit separation using the equation above but I'm not sure about the angle. Using tan^-1(.038/2), I got an angle of 1.1 degrees which then led me to a d value of 1.41 x 10^-4 m, but the answer given by the book is .085 mm so I'm just completely lost at this point.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
I also get a similar answer as yours.
 
blue_leaf77 said:
I also get a similar answer as yours.
Perhaps the book is wrong or something then.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
11K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
10K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
5K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
8K
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
6K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
4K