Is it possible to find refractive index from diffraction?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the refractive index of nylon fishing line using laser diffraction. The user successfully observed diffraction patterns but lacks the methodology to calculate the refractive index from these observations. The conversation emphasizes comparing the observed diffraction patterns with those produced by a steel wire of equivalent thickness and a slit of the same width as the wire. This comparative analysis is crucial for accurate refractive index determination.

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Homework Statement


I am trying to find the refractive index nylon (fishing line) , however when I used a laser onto the fishing line (nylon) it looked like it diffracted.

Homework Equations


I am able to find the diffraction if that was what it was showing, however I don't know how to calculate after that.

https://www.dropbox.com/s/k083dkj18xcdgro/CIMG3662.JPG?dl=0
https://www.dropbox.com/s/nq0d2iwd2kjem74/CIMG3664.JPG?dl=0
https://www.dropbox.com/s/ew0ys9dfqa1f4ol/CIMG3665.JPG?dl=0
https://www.dropbox.com/s/vs4nieam2yxy1t7/CIMG3666.JPG?dl=0
 
Last edited:
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Nice shots ! Hello JPL, :welcome:

As an experimentalist, I would compare the patterns you obtained with
  1. the pattern you get from a steel wire (or otherwise opaque wire) with same thickness
  2. the pattern you get with a slit as wide as the wire is thick
 

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