Why can this formula be applied for diffraction gratings?

AI Thread Summary
The formula n(lambda) = d sin(theta) for determining maxima and minima in wave interference applies to diffraction gratings because they can be conceptualized as multiple pairs of slits. Each pair of slits contributes to the overall interference pattern, producing distinct maxima and minima. The integer n indicates the order of the maxima, while lambda represents the wavelength of the light. The spacing d is effectively the distance between adjacent slits in the grating. This understanding clarifies how the formula remains valid despite the increased number of slits in a diffraction grating.
Dragynfyre
Messages
20
Reaction score
0
So for 2 point sources (or 2 slits) the formula for finding the lines of maxima and minima for waves is n(lambda)=dsin(theta) and when n is an integer you would expect to find a maxima. However, I don't understand why this formula also applies to diffraction gratings since there are way more than 2 slits. So can anyone explain this to me?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Consider the grating as pairs of slits. All pairs produce maxima or minima.

ehild
 

Thread 'Errors and significant figures'

I multiplied the values first without the error limit. Got 19.38. rounded it off to 2 significant figures since the given data has 2 significant figures. So = 19. For error I used the above formula. It comes out about 1.48. Now my question is. Should I write the answer as 19±1.5 (rounding 1.48 to 2 significant figures) OR should I write it as 19±1. So in short, should the error have same number of significant figures as the mean value or should it have the same number of decimal places as...
View full post »
Thread 'A cylinder connected to a hanging mass'

Thread 'A cylinder connected to a hanging mass'

Let's declare that for the cylinder, mass = M = 10 kg Radius = R = 4 m For the wall and the floor, Friction coeff = ##\mu## = 0.5 For the hanging mass, mass = m = 11 kg First, we divide the force according to their respective plane (x and y thing, correct me if I'm wrong) and according to which, cylinder or the hanging mass, they're working on. Force on the hanging mass $$mg - T = ma$$ Force(Cylinder) on y $$N_f + f_w - Mg = 0$$ Force(Cylinder) on x $$T + f_f - N_w = Ma$$ There's also...
View full post »

Similar threads

Diffraction pattern from a grating
Replies
3
Views
795
Number of bright fringes given by diffraction grating on a screen
Replies
6
Views
3K
Balmer series experiment
Replies
2
Views
928
Problem on Diffraction Grating and Laser Crystallography
Replies
10
Views
2K
Diffraction Grating: Possible variables for Experiment
Replies
5
Views
2K
Derivation of single slit diffraction formula
Replies
9
Views
2K
Maximum frequency if there is to be one diffraction order
Replies
4
Views
2K
Diffraction Grating Vs Double-Slit: Small angle Approx.
Replies
1
Views
8K
Maxima in a diffraction grating
Replies
2
Views
3K
Single-sit vs. Double-slit vs. Diffraction grating
Replies
4
Views
4K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top