Two slit interference question dont know how to begin

In summary, the question involves determining the distance between two slits based on the distance between a central maximum and the 2nd dark band in an interference pattern produced by light waves interfering constructively and destructively based on path length difference and phase difference. The phase difference can be calculated by dividing the path length difference by the wavelength and multiplying by 360 degrees.
  • #1
Dars
13
0

Homework Statement


Two slit interference question: A screen is 2.2m from two slits. The distance from point P to point R (the central maximum to the 2nd dark band) is 1.6mm.
This is what the pattern looks like (l) means light band... (d) means dark band


......P...R
(d) (l) (d) (l) (d) (l) (d) (l) (d) (l) (d)



Homework Equations


Determine the distance between the slits in terms of wavelength (lamda)


The Attempt at a Solution



I don't know how to begin, so I will say what I know... The bands are produced because the light waves interfere either constructively or destructively, depending on path length difference (difference in distance from slit to screen for any two waves) , which effects the phase difference between each waveform. If path length difference is half the wavelength this will produce destructive inteference, because the amplitudes sum and will therefore cancel, producing dark band. If path length is whole number multiple of wavelength, it will produce light band -max intensity, because the amplitudes sum and intensity is proportional to amplitude.

I also know that phase difference is path length difference divided by wavelength times 360deg.

Homework Statement





Homework Equations


please help me to begin??


The Attempt at a Solution

 
Physics news on Phys.org

1. How do the two-slit interference patterns form?

The two-slit interference pattern is formed when a coherent light source, such as a laser, is shined through two parallel slits onto a screen. The light waves from each slit overlap and interfere with each other, creating a pattern of bright and dark fringes on the screen.

2. What factors affect the two-slit interference pattern?

The two-slit interference pattern is affected by the wavelength of the light, the distance between the slits, and the distance from the slits to the screen. Additionally, the intensity of the light source and any obstructions or imperfections in the slits can also affect the pattern.

3. How can the two-slit interference pattern be explained using physics?

The two-slit interference pattern can be explained using the principles of wave interference. When two waves overlap, they interfere with each other constructively (creating bright fringes) or destructively (creating dark fringes) depending on their relative phases.

4. What does the two-slit interference pattern tell us about the nature of light?

The two-slit interference pattern supports the wave theory of light, which states that light behaves as a wave with properties such as wavelength and interference. This pattern also demonstrates the particle-wave duality of light, as it can also be explained by the particle nature of light known as photons.

5. How is the two-slit interference pattern used in practical applications?

The two-slit interference pattern is used in various applications such as optical filters, diffraction gratings, and holography. It is also used in the study of quantum mechanics, as it has been observed with particles other than light, such as electrons and atoms.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
548
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
5K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
1K
Back
Top