Why subsidary maximum has lower intensity physically in single-slit diffraction?

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In single-slit diffraction, the subsidiary maxima exhibit lower intensity compared to the central maximum due to differences in path length and phase differences among the interfering rays. The central maximum has a path difference of zero, resulting in constructive interference with maximum intensity. In contrast, subsidiary maxima, while also experiencing constructive interference, have a non-zero path difference that leads to a phase difference of integral multiples of pi, causing reduced intensity. This phenomenon can be mathematically derived from the intensity equations governing diffraction patterns. Understanding the interplay of path differences and phase relationships is crucial for explaining the intensity variations in diffraction patterns.
Arup Biswas
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In single slit diffraction the subsidary maximum has lower intensity than of central. Yes mathematically from the intensity equation we can see that. But how physically we can explain that? When the central and the 1st maxima has same activity to produce constructive interference( as in same phase). We neglect the intensity drop due to extra path traversed as they are very close!
 
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Arup Biswas said:
When the central and the 1st maxima has same activity to produce constructive interference( as in same phase).
Does it?
 
@Ibix the rays there interfere constructively depending on their path difference. In case of central path difference is 0 so phase difference also zero. In case of other maxima due to path difference phase difference must be integral multiple of pi so they are in phase! Doesn't it??
 
Arup Biswas said:
the rays there
Which rays?
 
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