Width of the first dark fringe (2 slit interference)

AI Thread Summary
In a double-slit experiment with slits spaced 0.20 mm apart and a screen 1.2 m away, the wavelength of light is 633 nm. The width of the central bright fringe is calculated as 3.8 mm, defined by the first dark fringes on either side. For the first dark fringe, there is confusion about its width; it is suggested that it might be considered as having zero width since complete cancellation occurs at a single point. The discussion emphasizes the need for clarity on how to define the width of dark fringes in interference patterns. Overall, the thread seeks assistance in understanding the calculations and definitions related to fringe widths.
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Homework Statement



In a double-slit experiment, the two narrow slits are spaced 0.20 mm apart. A viewing screen is put 1.2 m behind the slits. A parallel light ray is shining on the slits.

(a) If the wavelength of the incoming light ray is 633 nm. What is the width of the central bright fringe of the interference pattern on the viewing screen?

(b) If the wavelength of the incoming light ray is 633 nm. What is the width of the first dark fringe of the interference pattern on the viewing screen?


Homework Equations



y[m]=m*lambda*L/d (bright)
y'[m]=(m+.5)*lambda*L/d (dark)
theta [m]=m*lambda/d (bright)
y'[m]=(m+.5)*lambda/d (dark)

(using the small angle approximation in all equations.

The Attempt at a Solution



Okay so for part a I was thinking the following: the central maximum might be defined by the 1st dark fringes on either side of the central bright so y'[0]=1.899 mm and since the pattern is symmetric it is defined by the first dark on the left and the right which means the width is 2*y'[0]=3.8 mm. Is that on the right track at all?

For part b I am completely lost, I almost want to define the width of the first dark fringe as being between the central maximum and the 1st bright. But that would count a bunch of light area as being part of the dark! Then I want to say that maybe after all the first dark has a width of zero. After all the light is only completely canceled at one tiny point in space. What am I thinking about wrong? Help?
 
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If you want, I can try to explain the problem better. Or show more of a solution?

Don't leave me hanging here guys.
 
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