Understanding the Single Slit Diffraction Pattern

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the single slit diffraction pattern, emphasizing that light and dark patterns arise from constructive and destructive interference of wavelets generated by a single wave. The concept of diffraction is clarified using the Fraunhofer diffraction model, where both the light source and detection screen are considered at infinity. The diffraction pattern is determined by the Fourier transform of the slit opening, with each point in the slit acting as a source of spherical waves that approximate to plane waves at the detection screen.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave interference principles
  • Familiarity with Fraunhofer diffraction
  • Knowledge of Fourier transforms
  • Basic concepts of wave optics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the mathematical derivation of Fraunhofer diffraction
  • Explore the double slit experiment and its implications on diffraction patterns
  • Learn about Kirchhoff's diffraction formula
  • Investigate applications of Fourier optics in modern technology
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, particularly those focusing on optics and wave phenomena, as well as educators seeking to enhance their understanding of diffraction concepts.

GeneralOJB
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I'm confused about the single slit diffraction pattern. Why are light and dark patterns? Where is the constructive and destructive interference occurring if there is just one wave?
 
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So when doing the double slit experiment, one will see two diffraction patterns on top of each other then?
 
The most simple picture about diffraction comes from using the Fraunhofer case (both source and detection screen at infinity) and Kirchhoff's approximate formula. Then the diffraction pattern seen at the screen turns out to be given by the Fourier transform of the openings, i.e., the electric field is proportional to this Fourier transform.

The physical picture behind this is that any point of the opening is the source of a wave, and at the infinitely far away screen you can approximate the spherical wave by a plane wave (Fraunhofer diffraction).

You find the math in great detail at the Wikipedia link in GeneralOJB's posting.
 
vanhees71 said:
You find the math in great detail at the Wikipedia link in GeneralOJB's posting.

I think he means my post. :wink:
 

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