Single slit width change, how would fringes differ?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the effects of changing the width of a single slit on the diffraction pattern produced by light. Participants explore how variations in slit width influence fringe width and separation, and also consider the implications of using different wavelengths of light in a double slit scenario.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that making the slit width narrower increases diffraction, resulting in wider fringes.
  • There is a question regarding whether wider fringes equate to wider fringe separation.
  • A participant introduces a related scenario involving a double slit and queries whether longer wavelengths produce wider maxima and greater separations between them.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the relationship between slit width and fringe width, but there is some confusion regarding terminology related to fringe width and separation. The discussion about the double slit and different wavelengths introduces additional complexity without a clear consensus.

Contextual Notes

Participants do not clarify the definitions of fringe width and fringe separation, which may lead to misunderstandings. The implications of using different wavelengths in the double slit scenario are also not fully explored.

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just to be clear, this is single slit diffraction of light

if the slit width is made narrower, this would lead to more diffraction, so the fringe width would be wider, yeah?

but I'm a bit confused, because is this basically the same as saying the fringe separation would be wider?
 
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if the slit width is made narrower, this would lead to more diffraction, so the fringe width would be wider, yeah?
Right
but I'm a bit confused, because is this basically the same as saying the fringe separation would be wider?
And that is right, too. Where is the problem?
 
mfb said:
Right
And that is right, too. Where is the problem?

slightly different from my original question, but what if I had a double slit

and I wanted to compared the difference between two wavelengths of light

would the longer wavelength of light produce wider maximas and have greater separations between them?
 

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