Single slit diffraction distance

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the effects of increasing the width of a single slit on the diffraction pattern observed in single slit diffraction experiments. As the slit width increases, the angle at which the minima occur decreases, leading to a more pronounced diffraction pattern. This results in a decrease in the distance between the fringes, contrary to the initial assumption that the distance would increase. The central bright fringe does not become larger; instead, it remains relatively stable as the slit width changes.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of single slit diffraction principles
  • Familiarity with the diffraction formula and its components
  • Knowledge of wave optics and interference patterns
  • Basic grasp of wavelength and its role in diffraction
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the single slit diffraction formula in detail
  • Explore the relationship between slit width and fringe spacing
  • Investigate the impact of wavelength on diffraction patterns
  • Examine experimental setups for observing single slit diffraction
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Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in wave optics and diffraction phenomena.

labview1958
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What happens to the distance between fringes as the width of the single slit become larger? Does the distance between fringes increases? What happens to the centre bright fringe? Does it become larger with an increasing single slit width? My hunch is: Increasing the width increases the size of the bright central fringe, but applets on the net show otherwise. Can someone help?
 
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http://www.walter-fendt.de/ph14e/singleslit.htm

If the width of the slit increases, the diffraction pattern becomes more pronounced. It should be otherwise. Do you agree?
 
If you look at the formula for single slit diffraction you see that at a given wavelength if you increase the size of the slit then the angle at which the minima occur will decrease. Hence we will be able to see further higher order minimas.
 
Increasing slit width will decrease or increase the distance between fringes?
 

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