Optics: Solving for Slit Size Missing Fringes

  • Thread starter Thread starter Feodalherren
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Optics
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on a physics problem involving laser light and double slits, specifically addressing the missing 4th and 8th bright fringes in a fringe pattern created by slits 1mm apart. The relevant equation for solving this problem is asinΘ=mλ, where 'a' represents the slit size, 'm' the order of the fringe, and 'λ' the wavelength of the laser light. The solution requires careful counting of the dark fringes, as miscounting leads to incorrect conclusions about the slit size.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave optics principles
  • Familiarity with the double-slit experiment
  • Knowledge of the equation asinΘ=mλ
  • Ability to analyze fringe patterns and diffraction
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of diffraction and interference patterns
  • Learn how to apply the equation asinΘ=mλ in practical scenarios
  • Explore the effects of slit width on fringe visibility
  • Investigate the relationship between wavelength and fringe spacing
USEFUL FOR

Students studying wave optics, physics educators, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of light diffraction and interference patterns.

Feodalherren
Messages
604
Reaction score
6

Homework Statement


Laser light is projected into two small slits that are 1mm apart. The fringe pattern on the screen is missing the 4th bright fringe. That is, there is a bright center fringe and three more bright fringes to either side of the central bright fringe, but the 4th one is missing. For that matter, the 8th is missing too. What is the size of the slit(s)?


Homework Equations


asinΘ=mλ


The Attempt at a Solution


3_3.jpg
 
Physics news on Phys.org
That's quite messy - it is difficult to see what you've done.
Please show your reasoning with your working.
The marking seems pretty straight forward - you have miscounted the dark fringes, and attempted to count the dark fringes of the wrong diffraction pattern.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
997
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
8K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
4K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
4K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
5K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
8K