Why Does Young's Double Slit Experiment Use n + 1/2 Instead of m - 1/2?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around Young's Double Slit Experiment, specifically the interpretation of the equations used to describe the positions of interference patterns. Participants are questioning the use of different variables (n and m) in the context of the experiment.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are exploring the definitions of variables m and n as they relate to the positions of dark and light spots in the interference pattern. There is a focus on the differences in interpretation between the teacher's explanation and other sources.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants sharing their interpretations and sources. Some have expressed understanding of the relationship between the variables, while others continue to seek clarification on the definitions and implications of m and n.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of a test approaching, which may influence the urgency of understanding the material. Participants are also referencing different educational sources, indicating a variety of interpretations in the literature.

nesan
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Homework Statement


Is this wrong or right? PLZ.

The Attempt at a Solution



http://www.kentshillphysics.net/optics36.gif

I have a test tomorrow buy my teacher said it's m - 1/2

Why does it say n + 1/2 everywhere. >_<
 
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What is m in this equation? (both according to your teacher and to the other sources you found)
 
From your source, m is an integer 0,1,2...
This means that the equation simplyfies into (\frac{1}{2})\gamma =dsin(\theta), (\frac{3}{2})\gamma =dsin(\theta), (\frac{5}{2})\gamma =dsin(\theta)...

From your teacher, the number of spots away from the center is n.

So the first spot would yield (\frac{1}{2})\gamma =dsin(\theta), the second would be (\frac{3}{2})\gamma =dsin(\theta), and the third would be (\frac{5}{2})\gamma =dsin(\theta).

Do you see where I'm going with this?
 
Villyer said:
From your source, m is an integer 0,1,2...
This means that the equation simplyfies into (\frac{1}{2})\gamma =dsin(\theta), (\frac{3}{2})\gamma =dsin(\theta), (\frac{5}{2})\gamma =dsin(\theta)...

From your teacher, the number of spots away from the center is n.

So the first spot would yield (\frac{1}{2})\gamma =dsin(\theta), the second would be (\frac{3}{2})\gamma =dsin(\theta), and the third would be (\frac{5}{2})\gamma =dsin(\theta).

Do you see where I'm going with this?

Oh I got it. :)

Tnx. :)

<3
 

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