Huygens' Principle: Exploring a Single Slit Experiment

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Huygens' Principle explains that when a wave passes through a slit, it behaves as if each point within the slit acts as a source of new waves. The number of point sources illustrated in the diagram is arbitrary; in reality, every point in the slit contributes to wave propagation. This phenomenon can be likened to waves on a pond, where disturbances create ripples that spread outwards. The discussion clarifies that the point sources are not limited to a specific number or wavelength but represent the continuous nature of wavefronts. Understanding this principle is essential for grasping the behavior of waves in various contexts.
Toby_Obie
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Hello , as per diagram (attached) regarding Huygens slit experiment / diagram

When the wave enters the slit - why does it form a number of point sources ?

There are 6 as per the diagram, Are these the horizontal wavelengths of the electromagnetic waves ?

Thanks, much appreciated
 

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The "why" part is pretty easy to understand intuitively if you think about waves on a pond. These waves are created when something disturbs the water's surface--that is, something moves the water up or down. A wave moves water up and down, so the wave itself creates waves that spread out in all directions. In other words, every point inside the wavefront is creating new waves.

6 was as arbitrarily chosen number. In reality, every point in the slit sends out a wave.
 
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