Why do fringes appear sharper with more slits in multiple slit diffraction?

In summary, as more slits are added, the fringes appear sharper due to more superposition on locations with constructive superposition and more destructive interference in positions without light. This leads to thinner fringes as there are more constraints for constructive interference.
  • #1
doubledouble
6
0
Could anyone explain why it is that as more slits are added the fringes appear sharper?

Thanks
 
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  • #2
As a random shot, i would guess its because there is more superposition on the locations that should have constructive superposition, and there's more destructive interference in the positions that shouldn't have light, resulting in a sharper frindge.

This is my guess though
 
  • #3
AbedeuS said:
As a random shot, i would guess its because there is more superposition on the locations that should have constructive superposition, and there's more destructive interference in the positions that shouldn't have light, resulting in a sharper frindge.
This is pretty much on the mark, even if it is a little hand-wavey - essentially having more slits introduces more constraints when it comes to meeting conditions for constructive interference. This results in thinner fringes because at some small distance away from an interference maxima, there are more destructively-interfering contributions the more slits you have.

Claude.
 

FAQ: Why do fringes appear sharper with more slits in multiple slit diffraction?

1. What is multiple slit diffraction?

Multiple slit diffraction is a phenomenon in which light passing through multiple narrow slits produces an interference pattern on a screen. This occurs due to the wave-like nature of light and the constructive and destructive interference of the light waves passing through the slits.

2. How is multiple slit diffraction different from single slit diffraction?

Multiple slit diffraction differs from single slit diffraction in that it produces a more complex interference pattern with multiple peaks and valleys, while single slit diffraction produces a simpler pattern with only one central peak and smaller side peaks.

3. What factors affect the diffraction pattern in multiple slit diffraction?

The factors that affect the diffraction pattern in multiple slit diffraction include the distance between the slits, the wavelength of the light, and the width of the slits. These factors can change the spacing and intensity of the interference pattern on the screen.

4. How does changing the number of slits affect the diffraction pattern?

Changing the number of slits in multiple slit diffraction can alter the spacing and intensity of the interference pattern. With more slits, the pattern becomes more complex with more peaks and valleys, while fewer slits result in a simpler pattern with fewer peaks and valleys.

5. What applications does multiple slit diffraction have in science and technology?

Multiple slit diffraction has various applications in fields such as optics, spectroscopy, and microscopy. It is used to measure the wavelength of light, study the properties of materials, and create high-resolution images in microscopy. It also plays a crucial role in the development of technologies such as optical storage and fiber optics.

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