Pathlength Difference from two waves

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AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the pathlength difference between two waves from slits in an interference pattern. The slits are 0.12 mm apart and 780 mm from the screen, with a light wavelength of 549 nm. The user is confused about the concept of pathlength difference and its relation to the angle of the waves. They have calculated the distance between the first maxima (m=1) as 0.0036 m but are uncertain about the units for pathlength difference. Ultimately, they realize that the pathlength difference can be determined by multiplying the order number (m) by the wavelength.
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Homework Statement


Two slits separated by a distance of d = 0.12mm are located at a distance of D = 780mm from a screen. The screen is oriented parallel to the plane of the slits. The slits are illuminated by a coherent light source with a wavelength of lambda = 549E-6 mm. The interference pattern shows a peak at the center of the screen (m=0) and then alternating minima and maxima.
7. [1pt]
What is the pathlength difference between the two waves from the two slits at the first (m=1) maximum on the screen?

Homework Equations


d*sintheta = m*wavelength
sintheta = y(dist bt two maxima) / D(distance to screen)


The Attempt at a Solution


I'm really confused about what the "pathlength difference" refers to. It doesn't specify it in the book. I know the angles take different paths to get to the same point because of the distance inbetween them, but is it asking for an angle?
I solved the problem for y using the above equations, and at the first maxima (m=1), y(distance between the two maxima) is 0.0036m. But I don't know where to go from there?
 
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So...I think I just realized that pathlength difference refers to "m", but what are the units??
 
Ah, just figured it out...you have to use "m" and multiply it by the wavelength.
 
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