Thomas Young's Double-Slit Experiment Problems

In summary, the wavelength of light being used to create the interference pattern can be determined in three ways using the given data: by using the formula Δx = λL/d, sinθ= mλ/d, and sinθ= (n-1/2)λ/d. The first two methods yield a wavelength of 611 nm, but the third method, which involves finding the distance between a point on a nodal line and the right bisector, cannot be solved without additional information. It is also important to note that the minimum corresponds to a nodal region and the maximum corresponds to an antinodal region.
  • #1
snake3001
1
0

Homework Statement


Determine the wavelength of light being used to create the interference pattern in 3 different ways from the given data.
-The angle to the 8th maximum is 1.12°
-The distance from the slits to the screen is 302 cm
-The distance from the first minimum to the fifth minimum is 2.95 cm
-The distance between the slits is 0.00025 m

Homework Equations


Δx = λL/d
sinθ= mλ/d
sinθ= (n-1/2)λ/d
xn/L=(n-1/2)λ/d
xn/L=mλ/d

The Attempt at a Solution


You know that 4Δx=2.95 so Δx=0.7375
subbing that in you get 0.7375=3.02λ/0.00025
and λ=611 nm

next sin 1.12=8λ/0.00025
and λ= 611 nm

my problem is with the last one. I have no idea how to find xn (the distance between a point on a nodal line and the right bisector) as it is not a given and we don't have any info about the right bisector. So I don't even know how to begin with this problem.

Also, I also want to double check that minimum=nodal region and maximum=antinodal region. A simple fix if I'm wrong but just wanted to double check.

Thanks in advance!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
You haven't stated the 3rd problem!
 

1. What is Thomas Young's Double-Slit Experiment?

Thomas Young's Double-Slit Experiment is a classic physics experiment that demonstrates the wave-like nature of light. It involves shining a single beam of light through two parallel slits in a barrier and observing the interference pattern created on a screen behind the barrier.

2. Why is the Double-Slit Experiment important?

The Double-Slit Experiment is important because it provided evidence for the wave theory of light, which was a major breakthrough in understanding the nature of light. It also paved the way for further experiments and theories that have greatly contributed to our understanding of light and its behavior.

3. What are some common problems or limitations of the Double-Slit Experiment?

Some common problems or limitations of the Double-Slit Experiment include difficulties in obtaining a clear and distinct interference pattern, as well as potential sources of error such as imperfections in the slits or the presence of unwanted light sources.

4. How has the Double-Slit Experiment been used in other fields of science?

The Double-Slit Experiment has been used in various fields of science, including quantum mechanics and particle physics. It has also been adapted for use in studying other wave-like phenomena, such as water waves and sound waves.

5. What implications does the Double-Slit Experiment have for our understanding of the universe?

The Double-Slit Experiment, along with other experiments and theories, has led to a deeper understanding of the fundamental nature of light and its behavior. It has also opened up new avenues of research and exploration, particularly in the fields of quantum mechanics and particle physics, which have greatly expanded our understanding of the universe.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
10K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
14
Views
4K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
4K
Back
Top