Calc. Spread Wavelength w/ Monochromatic Light Source

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In summary, a monochromatic light source emits only one specific wavelength or color of light. The wavelength spread of monochromatic light can be calculated using the formula: λ / Δλ = N, and is affected by the properties of the light source and external factors. This wavelength spread is important in scientific experiments as it impacts the precision and accuracy of measurements. While it can be adjusted, it is limited by the properties of the light source.
  • #1
truth_hunter
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Hello,
here is a poser for you how do you calculate the spread in wavelngth when a monochromatic light source of known wavlength is chopped by a shutter into a known pulse duration?
 
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  • #2
truth_hunter said:
Hello,
here is a poser for you how do you calculate the spread in wavelngth when a monochromatic light source of known wavlength is chopped by a shutter into a known pulse duration?

Take the signal in the time domain and do a Fourier transform into the frequency domain. You'll obtain all the harmonics of that signal.

Zz.
 
  • #3


To calculate the spread in wavelength, we can use the formula: Δλ = cΔt/λ, where Δλ is the spread in wavelength, c is the speed of light, Δt is the pulse duration, and λ is the known wavelength of the monochromatic light source.

For example, if we have a monochromatic light source with a wavelength of 500 nm and we chop it into a pulse duration of 10 milliseconds, the spread in wavelength would be Δλ = (3 x 10^8 m/s)(10 x 10^-3 s)/(500 x 10^-9 m) = 6 x 10^-3 m = 6 nm.

This formula assumes that the pulse duration is much shorter than the wavelength of the light source, and that the light source is truly monochromatic. Any deviations from these assumptions may result in a slightly different calculation.

I hope this helps with your question. Let me know if you have any further queries.
 

1. What is a monochromatic light source?

A monochromatic light source is a light source that emits only one specific wavelength or color of light.

2. How is the wavelength of light spread calculated?

The wavelength spread of monochromatic light can be calculated using the formula: λ / Δλ = N, where λ is the central wavelength and Δλ is the wavelength spread, and N is the number of wavelengths within the spread.

3. What factors affect the wavelength spread of monochromatic light?

The wavelength spread of monochromatic light is affected by the properties of the light source, such as the size and shape of the emitting element, as well as any external factors that may cause diffraction or dispersion of the light.

4. How does the wavelength spread of monochromatic light impact scientific experiments?

The wavelength spread of monochromatic light is important in scientific experiments as it affects the precision and accuracy of measurements. A larger wavelength spread can lead to less precise results, while a smaller wavelength spread can improve the accuracy of measurements.

5. Can the wavelength spread of monochromatic light be adjusted?

Yes, the wavelength spread of monochromatic light can be adjusted by changing the properties of the light source, such as the size of the emitting element or by using filters to block certain wavelengths. However, the spread will always be limited by the properties of the light source itself.

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