Are Both Angles in Young's Double Slit Experiment Equal?

In summary, the conversation revolves around proving the equality of two angles, θ, from a given picture. The key points are that the right angle in the picture is indeed a 90 degree angle and that if lines A and B have an angle θ between them, then parallel lines C and D, as well as perpendicular lines E and F, also have an angle θ between them. The concept of similar triangles is hinted at as a possible method for proving the equality.
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
This might help: The small triangle's theta refers to the top angle of the triangle, not the left one. Also, the right angle is right. By that I mean that the angle on the right side of the triangle is a 90 degree angle. This post was an excuse to say that the right angle is right.
 
  • #3
Yes I was aware of which angles where which. I just used that picture since it was easily attainable. Any hints as to starting this
 
  • #4
Suppose you have two lines A and B that have angle θ between them.

If you have line C parallel to A, and line D parallel to B, then C and D also have angle θ between them, right?

Likewise, if you have line E perpendicular to A, and line F perpendicular to B, then E and F also have angle θ between them.
 
  • #5
The phrase 'similar triangles' comes to mind and it hasn't yet been spelled out.
 

1. What is the concept behind Young's double slit experiment?

The concept behind Young's double slit experiment is to observe the interference pattern created by light passing through two narrow, parallel slits. This experiment helped to prove the wave nature of light and was a significant step in understanding the behavior of light.

2. How are the slits positioned in Young's double slit experiment?

The two slits in Young's double slit experiment are positioned close to each other and parallel to each other. They are usually made using thin, opaque materials such as cardstock or metal.

3. What is the role of the distance between the slits in Young's double slit experiment?

The distance between the slits in Young's double slit experiment determines the width of the interference pattern. The smaller the distance, the wider the pattern, and vice versa. This distance also affects the spacing of the fringes in the pattern.

4. How does the angle of the light affect the interference pattern in Young's double slit experiment?

The angle of the light affects the interference pattern by changing the distance between the fringes. As the angle increases, the distance between the fringes decreases, resulting in a narrower pattern. This can be seen through the equation d*sin(theta) = m*lambda, where d is the distance between the slits, theta is the angle of the light, m is the order of the fringe, and lambda is the wavelength of the light.

5. Can Young's double slit experiment be used to determine the wavelength of light?

Yes, Young's double slit experiment can be used to determine the wavelength of light. By measuring the distance between fringes in the interference pattern and using the equation d*sin(theta) = m*lambda, the wavelength of the light can be calculated. This is because the distance between fringes is directly proportional to the wavelength of the light.

Similar threads

Replies
11
Views
845
  • Classical Physics
Replies
6
Views
623
Replies
4
Views
322
Replies
20
Views
5K
Replies
12
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
34
Views
604
Replies
3
Views
572
  • Quantum Physics
2
Replies
36
Views
1K
  • Classical Physics
2
Replies
58
Views
7K
Back
Top