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

AI Thread Summary
Single-slit interference patterns feature a taller, broader central maximum, while double-slit patterns exhibit a more intense, narrower central maximum with less intense, broader secondary maxima. Diffraction gratings produce narrow, tall maxima and broader minima, allowing for clear differentiation among the patterns. The discussion highlights confusion regarding the terminology of "tall" and "elongated" maxima, emphasizing the need for clarity in describing intensity profiles. The envelope of intensity for all three cases should remain consistent if the slit dimensions are identical. Overall, the participants gained a better understanding of the differences in interference patterns.
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


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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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