Single/double slit diffraction intensity

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the concepts of single and double slit diffraction, specifically focusing on the intensity patterns observed in these phenomena. Participants are exploring why intensity decreases at maxima in single slit diffraction and the behavior of intensity in double slit interference patterns, particularly in relation to slit width and separation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are asking for explanations of the intensity distribution in single slit diffraction, particularly why it decreases further from the central maximum. They are also questioning the uniformity of intensity at maxima in double slit interference patterns and how slit width affects this. Additionally, there is a request for clarification on the relationship between slit separation and the spacing of maxima.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants seeking simpler explanations and analogies to better understand the concepts. Some have provided links to external resources for further reading, indicating a willingness to explore the topic in more depth.

Contextual Notes

Participants express a need for clarity due to confusion caused by more experienced physicists' terminology. There is an emphasis on using simple vocabulary and examples to facilitate understanding.

EF17xx
Messages
36
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



SINGLE SLIT
Why does the intensity at maxima decrease further away from the central maxima in a single slit diffraction.

DOUBLE SLIT
Slit width:
Why is the intensity of a double slit interference pattern the same at each maxima. (constructive interference)
When the slit width is negligible

BUT NOT
when the slit width is not negligible.

2. Homework Equations
λ/b=sinθ
Intensity propoportional to Amplitude^2

The Attempt at a Solution


Could someone please explain using simple vocabulary/ terminology and examples/analogies as I sometimes get confused by very experienced physicists who assume I know what they're talking about. :) :)
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Would also like to know why when slit separation is SMALLER the maxima are further apart.
I understand this is the case when simply looking at the formula. s=λD/d but could someone please put this into words for why it is like that.
 
EF17xx said:

Homework Statement



SINGLE SLIT
Why does the intensity at maxima decrease further away from the central maxima in a single slit diffraction.

The Attempt at a Solution


Could someone please explain using simple vocabulary/ terminology and examples/analogies as I sometimes get confused by very experienced physicists who assume I know what they're talking about. :) :)

the single slit diffraction pattern and intensity distribution is a lab experiment and the intensity one observes is due to interference of diffracted rays. if you wish to understand it in detail
see
https://phys.libretexts.org/TextMap...ion/4.2:_Intensity_in_Single-Slit_Diffraction
and then proceed further.
 

Similar threads

Diffraction pattern from a grating
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
Intensity of central maximum when width of single slit is doubled
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
2K
Single-sit vs. Double-slit vs. Diffraction grating
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
5K
Intensity for Young’s Double Slit Interference
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
8K
Relationship of slit, wavelength, and intensity
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
4K
Fraunhofer Diffraction Pattern Ratio of Power Densities
  • · Replies 34 ·
2
Replies
34
Views
4K
Single slit double slit and diffraction grating
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
14K
Interference Fringes in a Diffraction envelope
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
Derivation of single slit diffraction formula
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
3K
Interference of light Intensity
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
4K