What Does Each Symbol in the Interference Pattern Equation Represent?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around understanding the symbols in the interference pattern equation d * l / χ = m λ, particularly for a practical exam on diffraction grating. The user is uncertain about the meaning of the symbols, mistakenly identifying 'm' as mass, while it is suggested that it may actually represent the order of the interference pattern, often denoted as 'n'. The user correctly identifies χ as fringe distance and λ as wavelength, while l refers to the distance from the grating to the screen and d is the slit separation. Clarification is provided that the equation applies to light, which has no mass, further supporting the idea that 'm' should be interpreted differently. The conversation emphasizes the importance of accurately understanding the equation for successful exam preparation.
3nder
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i have a class test tomorrow and I've been studying but i can't find this one equation in the textbook and was looking for some help. I am asked to 'determine the distance between a diffraction grating and a screen by using the interference pattern equation.' this is a practical exam and count towards my HSC so any help is appreciated. thankyou
interference patturn equation: d * l / \chi = m \lambda
i do not know what the symbols stand for as i can't find this equation anywhere but i do know \chi, \lambda and I am assuming 'm' stands for mass.
 
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I thkink:

X is the fringe distance
Lambda is wavelength
l is the length from the diffraction grating to the screen (center)
d is is the separation of the slits
m is mass

Are you sure you have the equation right though? If m is mass this equation would only work for particles with mass such as electrons, not photons which have no mass.
 
yeah that's the one on assessment sheet, everything you said sounds about right. but i don't know what to think about the 'm'
mabey i read it wrong and it's a stylised 'n'
 

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