The sources of error in a diffraction grating experiment

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on identifying sources of error in diffraction grating experiments and their impact on measuring wavelength. Key sources of error include inaccuracies in reading the diffraction angle, which can lead to significant discrepancies in wavelength calculations. Participants emphasize the importance of precise measurements and the mathematical analysis of diffraction patterns to mitigate these errors. The conversation highlights the need for a thorough cataloging of potential errors to enhance experimental accuracy.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of diffraction grating theory
  • Familiarity with measuring angles accurately
  • Knowledge of wavelength calculation methods
  • Basic principles of experimental physics
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  • Research methods to improve angle measurement accuracy in diffraction experiments
  • Study the mathematical analysis of diffraction patterns in detail
  • Explore error analysis techniques in experimental physics
  • Investigate the impact of environmental factors on diffraction measurements
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Physics students, experimental physicists, educators, and anyone involved in conducting or analyzing diffraction grating experiments.

Adams2020
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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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