Interference - Single slit diffraction

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a problem related to single slit diffraction, specifically involving the calculation of slit width based on the observed diffraction pattern of monochromatic electromagnetic radiation. The original poster presents a scenario where a slit width is to be determined given the wavelength of light and the width of the central maximum on a screen.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply a formula related to diffraction but questions the correctness of their approach after receiving feedback. Some participants suggest verifying the application of the correct equation for single slit diffraction.

Discussion Status

The discussion has seen some productive exchanges, with the original poster acknowledging a mistake in using the two-slit diffraction formula instead of the appropriate single slit formula. Guidance has been offered regarding the correct approach to the problem.

Contextual Notes

There is an indication that the original poster may have been confused about the application of diffraction equations, which highlights the importance of understanding the distinctions between different diffraction scenarios.

Isaac Pepper
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< Mentor Note -- thread moved to HH from the technical physics forums, so no HH Template is shown >[/color]

Hi guys, I have a question here which I'm struggling to do and perhaps you could help ;

Monochromatic electromagnetic radiation with wavelength λ from a distant source passes through a slit. The diffraction pattern is observed on a screen 2.50 m from the slit.
If the width of the central maximum is 6.00 mm, what is the slit width a if the wavelength is 500 nm (visible light)?

What I have done is

y=(R(m+1/2)lambda) / d where y = 3mm (half of the central maximum width); R = 2.5m m = 0 lambda=500nm

d =( R(m+1/2)lambda) / y

d =( 2.5 * (1/2) * 500x10^-9 )/ 3x10^-3
and so I manage to obtain d = 2.08x10^-4 m, however this answer is wrong

what am I doing wrong?
Thanks !
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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Hello Isaac, welcome to PF :smile: !

This looks an awful lot like homework, so better post it there. You get thrown in a useful template as an extra !

You sure you are applying an equation for a single slit diffraction pattern ?
 
I shall do, thanks :)
 
Don't re-post; I will move it there now...
 
BvU said:
You sure you are applying an equation for a single slit diffraction pattern ?

Thanks ! I have worked it out and I was indeed using the 2-slit diffraction formula :/

The answer was 4.167x10^-4
 
Well done ! Hope to see you back some time in the future, but don't hurry...
 

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