Single-sit vs. Double-slit vs. Diffraction grating

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the characteristics of interference patterns produced by single-slit, double-slit, and diffraction grating setups in the context of wave optics. Participants are exploring how to distinguish between these patterns based on their features.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants attempt to describe the differences in the appearance of interference patterns, focusing on aspects such as the height and width of maxima. Questions arise regarding the interpretation of terms like "tall" and "elongated," as well as the implications of the intensity profile of the single slit on the other patterns.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing feedback and seeking clarification on specific terms and concepts. Some guidance has been offered regarding the relationship between the single-slit intensity profile and the other patterns, but no consensus has been reached on the definitions being used.

Contextual Notes

There is uncertainty regarding the definitions of "tall" and "elongated" in the context of interference patterns, and assumptions about the size of the single slit are being questioned. Participants express a desire for a clearer understanding of these characteristics.

kamhogo
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Homework Statement


Briefly state one characteristic of single-slit /double-slit/diffraction grating interference pattern that allow you to clearly distinguish one from the others.

Homework Equations


None

The Attempt at a Solution


Single-slit:
Taller, broader central maximum.Double-slit:
More intense, narrower central maximum that single-slit interference.
Less intense, broader (than grating), equally spaced maxima.

Diffraction grating
Narrow, tall maxima. Broader minima.
I don't think my answers are complete or correct or if they answer the question properly. I also have trouble understanding the reasons why those differences occur.
 
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Most are correct, I just don't understand what you mean by tall?
 
blue_leaf77 said:
Most are correct, I just don't understand what you mean by tall?
Which aren't correct? By tall I mean than they are more elongated. The central maximum seems to keep the same height when you switch from single-slit/double-slit interference to diffraction grating interference but the secondary maxima get more elongated. The envelope is less of a dome and closer to a line...
 
My reservation is on the tallness that you are talking about. Elongated in which direction? Is it in the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the fringes span?
kamhogo said:
The envelope is less of a dome and closer to a line...
The envelope actually corresponds to the intensity profile from a single slit, therefore if in those three cases the single slit size (length and height) can be assumed to be identical, then the envelope should be the same for all of them.
 
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blue_leaf77 said:
My reservation is on the tallness that you are talking about. Elongated in which direction? Is it in the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the fringes span?

The envelope actually corresponds to the intensity profile from a single slit, therefore if in those three cases the single slit size (length and height) can be assumed to be identical, then the envelope should be the same for all of them.
Thanks for the feedback. I understand it all a little better now.
 

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