Multiple Slit Interference - 3rd Slit Added Between 2 Slits

Click For Summary
Adding a third slit between two original slits affects the interference pattern observed. Point C remains a principal maximum, while the status of points Z, Y, and X needs further analysis based on path length differences. The path length difference for the new configuration alters the conditions for constructive and destructive interference. Understanding the relationship between the slits' distances and the resulting interference pattern is crucial for determining whether points Z, Y, and X are maxima or minima. This discussion emphasizes the importance of calculating path differences to analyze interference outcomes accurately.
SMA777
Messages
11
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



Suppose a third slit of the same width were added halfway between the original two slits.
(the original two slits were a distance d apart). When there were just 2 slits, the point C was the center (a principal max), point Z was the first maximum after C, point Y was the second maximum after C, and point X was the minimum after Y (or the 3rd minimum after C).

a. Would point Z be a principal maximum, a minimum, or neither? Explain
b. Would point Y be a principal maximum, a minimum, or neither? Explain
c. Would point X be a principal maximum, a minimum, or neither? Explain

Homework Equations



ΔD = dsinθ where ΔD is the path length difference between slits, and d is the distance between slits

The Attempt at a Solution


I really don't know where to begin. If we say ΔD1 was the path length difference between the two slits, then ΔD2 = 2 ΔD1 where ΔD2 is the path length difference between slit 1 and 3. (by my labeling original slits were slit 1 and 3, and slit 2 was added in the middle, a distance d/2 from each original slit)

I know C would still be a maximum because it is the center. Other than that, I'm not sure where to begin. Any tips are appreciated.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Thread 'Correct statement about size of wire to produce larger extension'
The answer is (B) but I don't really understand why. Based on formula of Young Modulus: $$x=\frac{FL}{AE}$$ The second wire made of the same material so it means they have same Young Modulus. Larger extension means larger value of ##x## so to get larger value of ##x## we can increase ##F## and ##L## and decrease ##A## I am not sure whether there is change in ##F## for first and second wire so I will just assume ##F## does not change. It leaves (B) and (C) as possible options so why is (C)...

Similar threads

  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
959
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
7K
Replies
1
Views
4K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
8K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K