What do these submaxima represent - Interference Pattern

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the existence of secondary maxima in interference patterns, particularly in the context of multiple-slit diffraction. Users clarify that secondary maxima arise due to partially constructive interference when the path length difference between adjacent slits is not a multiple of the wavelength. The relationship between the interference pattern (curve 1), diffraction pattern (curve 3), and irradiance pattern (curve 2) is explored, with emphasis on how the individual slit characteristics influence the overall pattern. The conversation highlights the mathematical foundation of these phenomena, referencing the Fourier transform and specific formulas related to intensity distribution.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave interference principles
  • Familiarity with diffraction patterns and their characteristics
  • Knowledge of the Fourier transform in optics
  • Basic grasp of mathematical functions related to wave behavior, such as sinc functions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the intensity formula for multiple-slit interference: I(θ)=I_o (sin²(Nφ/2) / sin²(φ/2))
  • Explore the concept of Fourier transforms in the context of wave optics
  • Investigate the effects of varying slit width and spacing on diffraction patterns
  • Learn about phasor diagrams for visualizing multiple-slit interference
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, optical engineers, and researchers interested in wave optics and interference phenomena will benefit from this discussion.

  • #31
In my notation ##I_0## is the intensity at ##x=0##. Just expand around ##x=0##, which gives
$$I(x) = I_0 + \mathcal{O}(x^2).$$
That's why I've put the ##1/N^2## factor in my formula.

See also the figures on p. 161 of my manuscript, cited already above.
 
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