Variable conditions of double slit interference

AI Thread Summary
In a double slit experiment with red light, moving the screen closer to the slits results in a decreased fringe separation due to the inverse relationship between distance and fringe spacing. Blocking one of the slits reduces the number of interference patterns, leading to a single-slit diffraction pattern rather than altering the wavelength of the light. The original poster expresses uncertainty about the effects of blocking a slit, initially suggesting it might increase the wavelength but later acknowledges it should not. The discussion emphasizes understanding the relationship between distance, fringe separation, and the impact of blocking a slit on the interference pattern. Clarification on these concepts is sought for better comprehension.
aurao2003
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Homework Statement



Hi
Can anyone help on this. The questions is as follows:

In a double slits experiment using red light, a fringe pattern is observed on a screen at a fixed distance from the double slits. How would the finge pattern change if:

a) The screen is moved closer to the slits
b)one of the double slits is blocked completely.


Homework Equations



a) The standard formula
W= (DX Wavelength)/s
W= Fringe seperation
D= distance of slit to the screen
s= distance between centre of the slits




The Attempt at a Solution


I surmised the following:
Since D Represents the distance of the slit from the the screen, it is a proportional relationship to the fringe seperation(W). So, if the distance is decreased less spaced.

b)I am not sure of this. Blocking one of the double slits seems to imply a reduced wavelength. Red has one of the longest wavelengths. From the above formula, it seems to suggest the same effect as above. But a part of me is suggesting there is an increased wavelength.

Please!
 
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