What Is the Intensity in a Triple-Slit Experiment?

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SUMMARY

The triple-slit experiment demonstrates the interference of light waves through three narrow slits, producing distinct intensity patterns on a viewing screen. When the path-length difference between adjacent slits is λ, the resulting intensity at that point is 9I1, where I1 is the intensity from a single slit. Conversely, when the path-length difference is λ/2, the intensity remains I1. This experiment highlights the principles of wave interference and the mathematical relationships governing intensity in multi-slit setups.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave interference principles
  • Familiarity with the concept of intensity in optics
  • Knowledge of light wavelength (λ) and path-length differences
  • Basic mathematical skills for manipulating equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the mathematical derivation of intensity in multi-slit interference patterns
  • Explore the differences between single-slit and multi-slit experiments
  • Learn about the role of phase differences in wave interference
  • Investigate practical applications of interference patterns in optics
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on optics and wave phenomena, as well as educators seeking to explain the principles of interference in light waves.

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Homework Statement


A triple-slit experiment consists of three narrow slits, equally spaced by distance d and illuminated by light of wavelength λ. Each slit alone produces intensity I1 on the viewing screen at distance L.
Consider a point on the distant viewing screen such that the path-length difference between any two adjacent slits is λ.

What is the intensity at this point?
Express your answer in terms of I1

What is the intensity at a point where the path-length difference between any two adjacent slits is λ/2?
Express your answer in terms of I1.

Homework Equations


I have no idea what applies to this.

The Attempt at a Solution


I have no idea how to solve this. I know that the answers are 9I for the first question and I for the second. I found it in a list of problems to know for my final exam, but i have no clue how to start.
 
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Consider just two slits for the moment. If the path difference for the waves from the two slits is λ, do the waves arrive at the screen in phase or out of phase?
 

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