The sources of error in a diffraction grating experiment

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In a diffraction grating experiment, key sources of error include inaccuracies in reading the diffraction angle, which can lead to variations in the calculated wavelength. These reading discrepancies can significantly impact the results, as the diffraction angle is directly related to the wavelength measurement. Participants in the discussion express a desire for a comprehensive analysis of potential errors to deepen the conversation. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of understanding these errors to improve experimental accuracy. Overall, recognizing and addressing sources of error is crucial for obtaining reliable data in diffraction grating experiments.
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In a diffraction grating experiment, what can be the sources of error and also what effect do these sources have on the unknown quantity (wavelength) in the experiment?
 
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Adams2020 said:
Summary:: What are the sources of error in the diffraction grating experiment and what is the effect?

In a diffraction grating experiment, what can be the sources of error and also what effect do these sources have on the unknown quantity (wavelength) in the experiment?
What are your thoughts? There are a couple obvious sources of error, but you need to go first. Are you familiar with the mathematical analysis of diffraction grating patterns?

Also, is this a schoolwork question?
 
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berkeman said:
What are your thoughts? There are a couple obvious sources of error, but you need to go first. Are you familiar with the mathematical analysis of diffraction grating patterns?

Also, is this a schoolwork question?
Yes, I am familiar with diffraction patterns and its theory.
No, this is not a school work question, it is a personal question, otherwise I would have sent the question in the relevant section.
 
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Great. So what do you think the top couple sources of error would be, and how would that affect the output data?
 
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berkeman said:
Great. So what do you think the top couple sources of error would be, and how would that affect the output data?
I think an error could be to read the diffraction angle. Because people may read different angles, albeit with slight differences. And because the diffraction angle is related to the wavelength, can affect it.
 
Doesn't anyone exist?:smile:
 
I, for one, am waiting for your best effort to catalog all the errors. This avoids us telling you things you already know and allows us to understand at what depth to proceed.
 
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Adams2020 said:
Doesn't anyone exist?

Sounds a lot like "Hop to it! It's due Friday!"

Add me to the list of people waiting for your best effort. If it helps, many people are willing to put as much effort as you are. But not much more.
 
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