What are g and a in a Diffraction Grating Problem?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the analysis of a diffraction grating with a period D, where each element consists of a pair of narrow slits separated by D/N. The key tasks include sketching the diffraction pattern under normal illumination, calculating the relative intensities $I_n$ for various diffraction peaks when N=4, and demonstrating that for N=2, the solution simplifies to that of a simple grating with period D/2. The user expresses confusion regarding the formulation of the complete function of the grating and seeks guidance on how to manipulate it effectively.

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Homework Statement


A diffraction grating has period D, and each element of the grating consists of a pair of narrow slits separated by D/N where N is an integer.
a) Sketch the diffraction pattern when the grating is normally illuminated
b)Calculate the relative intensities $I_n$ of the various diffraction peaks of order n, for the case N=4. Which peaks are forbidden?
c)For the case N=2 show that the solution reduced to that of a simple grating of period D/2.

Homework Equations



See step 3 for my full attempt to solve the problem.

The Attempt at a Solution



I am aware that the above solution is incorrect, because I ended up ignoring so many things that the solution equals to the one for a double slit, but superposed on a comb of delta functions. My problem is that I don't know how to write the complete function of the grating as a simple function which one could nicely manipulate. Could someone please point me in the correct direction?

P.s I am aware that my attempt of the solution is not the most clear.

P.s.s Link to the higher resolution picture here.
 

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"narrow slits" -> you can ignore single-slit effects. There is no envelope.

The pattern there is for the grating. You can see which phase you get between the two slits for those peaks.
What are g and a?
 

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