Light Diffraction Homework: 2 Wavelengths & Angle of Coincidence

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves light diffraction through a grating with two wavelengths differing by 160 nm. The scenario describes how the third order of one wavelength coincides with the fourth order of another, prompting the need to determine the wavelengths and the angle of diffraction at which this occurs.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of the diffraction grating formula and the relationship between the orders of the wavelengths. There is an exploration of the calculations for the grating spacing and the resulting angles of diffraction.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided calculations for the wavelengths and angles based on the initial assumptions. There is a focus on verifying the correctness of the grating spacing value, with some guidance offered regarding the relationship between the wavelengths at the point of coincidence.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the assumption that the value for the grating spacing is correct, and there is an ongoing discussion about whether the calculated angles and wavelengths are accurate based on that assumption.

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Homework Statement



12 Light consisting of two wavelengths which differ by 160 nm passes through a diffraction grating with 2.50 x 105 lines per metre. In the diffracted light, the third order of one wavelength coincides with the fourth of the other. What are the two wavelengths and at what angle of diffraction does this coincidence occur?

Homework Equations



y=n[tex]\lambda[/tex]L/d I think is what I should be looking at??

The Attempt at a Solution


[tex]\Delta[/tex][tex]\lambda[/tex]=160*10^-9
d=1/2.5*10^5 = 4*10-6 not sure if this part is right
If my d is right I think that what I should do next is
y3=3*[tex]\lambda[/tex]*L/4*10^-6
y4=4*[tex]\lambda[/tex]*L/4*10^-6
these are both bright fringes but maybe one should be dark?
That is as far as I get at the moment!

Thanks for any help.
 
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Formula for diffraction grating is

d*sin(θ) = mλ

at the point of coincidence θ is same for both the wavelengths. So

m1λ1 = m2λ2

3*λ1 = 4(λ1- 160)

Solve for λ1. And then proceed to find the other results.
 
Thanks rl.bhat,
[tex]\lambda[/tex]1=6.4*10-7m
[tex]\lambda[/tex]2=4.8*10-7m
assuming my value for d from my 1st post is correct,
3*6.4*10-7=4*10-6 sin ([tex]\theta[/tex])
[tex]\theta[/tex]=28.69o
Does this seem right, mainly concerned about my value for d??

Thanks
 
You are right.
 

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