Why Is Huygens Construction Not Used for Double Slit Diffraction?

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Huygens construction is commonly applied to single slit diffraction but is not used for double slit diffraction due to the complexity of the interference patterns involved. The double slit pattern arises from the superposition of two single slit patterns, which can complicate the analysis. While some argue that applying Huygens' principle to double slits could overcomplicate the explanation, others suggest it could still provide insights. The discussion raises questions about the effectiveness of different methods in explaining diffraction phenomena. Ultimately, the choice of approach may depend on the context and clarity needed in understanding the interference effects.
SimonB
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A conceptual problem for me anyway!

In the standard texts a Huygens construction is used to explain the diffraction pattern from a single slit. However it is not used in the explanations for double (or multiple slits). What is the justification for this ... the double slit pattern should be two single slit patterns interfering but is that just over complicating things?

Thanks in advance

Simon
 
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