Why Are There Different Results in Young's Double-Slit Experiment Calculations?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the differing results obtained from two equations used to calculate the distance to the next bright spot in Young's double-slit experiment. The first equation, d*sinθ = m*λ, yields a distance of 1.92m, while the second equation, Y = R*m*λ / d, results in 1.62m. The discrepancy arises from the use of the small angle approximation in the second formula, which simplifies calculations but may not be accurate for larger angles. Participants highlight the importance of understanding the conditions under which each formula is applicable. Clarifying the context of these equations is essential for consistent results in similar problems.
Chris Okeef
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Homework Statement


In a KhanAcademy video, light of wavelength 700nm shines through a double-slit whose holes are spaced 1300nm
apart. If a screen is placed 3m away from the double-slit, what will be the distance from the central bright spot on the screen to the next bright spot?
https://www.khanacademy.org/test-pr...agnetic /v/youngs-double-slit-problem-solving

Homework Equations


per KhanAcademy: d*sinθ = m*λ

per what I think: Y = R*m*λ / d

d = distance between the 2 slits
m = whether it's the 1st, 2nd, 3rd bright band
Y = distance from central bright
R = distance from double-slit to screen

The Attempt at a Solution


per KhanAcademy and using d*sinθ = m*λ

d*sinθ = m*λ
1300nm*sinθ = 1*700nm
sinθ = 700nm / 1300nm
θ = 32.6°

then use this to find Y
tanθ = Y / X
Y = tanθ*X
Y= tan(32.6°)*3m
Y= 0.64*3
Y= 1.92mper what I think and using Y = R*m*λ / d

Y = R*m*λ / d
Y = 3m*1*700nm / 1300nm
Y = 1.62m

(nanometers were converted to meters. I just did it this way to save space when typing it here)

My Question: Which equation should I use? Why am I getting different answers?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
The second formula is the small angle approximation:
then sin(θ) ≅ θ in radians and θ ≅ Y/R
 
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