Young's double slit experiment

In summary, the best set up to repeat Young's double slit experiment with a diode laser would be to ensure that the light is coherent when it hits the slits and to enclose the experiment so no light can get in. Attenuate the laser until only one photon is present in the box at anyone time and scan the photomultiplier across the interference pattern. It should match the expected pattern for a macroscopic wave traveling through the slits, making it a simple illustration of the quantum behavior of light. The optimum distance between the two slits should depend on the wavelength of the radiation, with anything below 10 micrometers being suitable. However, this may vary and is not a definitive answer.
  • #1
VantagePoint72
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What would be the best set up to repeat Young's double slit experiment with a diode laser?
 
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  • #2
As long as the light is coherent when it hits the slits, any set up should be fine.

A good experiment to try if you have a photomultiplier is to enclose the experiment so no light can get in. Attenuate the laser until only one photon is present in the box at anyone time (on average). Scan the photomultiplier across the interferance pattern and show that it matches the pattern that would be expected for a macroscopic wave traveling through the slits.

It is a simple illustration of the quantum behaviour of light.

Claude.
 
  • #3
Sounds like a good experiment...either way, is there an optimum distance to have between the two slits?
 
  • #4
Though it should depend on the wavelenght of the radiation,I guess anything below [tex] 10\mu m [/tex] would do.

I may be wrong,i'm just another ordinary theorist.
 

1. What is Young's double slit experiment?

Young's double slit experiment is a classic experiment in physics that demonstrates the wave nature of light. It involves shining a light through two narrow slits and observing the interference pattern that is created on a screen behind the slits.

2. What is the purpose of Young's double slit experiment?

The purpose of Young's double slit experiment is to demonstrate that light exhibits wave-like properties, such as interference, and cannot be explained solely by the particle model of light.

3. What is the principle behind Young's double slit experiment?

The principle behind Young's double slit experiment is the wave interference of light. When light passes through two narrow slits, it diffracts and creates a pattern of bright and dark fringes on a screen. This can only be explained by the wave nature of light.

4. What factors can affect the interference pattern in Young's double slit experiment?

The interference pattern in Young's double slit experiment can be affected by the wavelength of light, the distance between the slits, and the distance between the slits and the screen. It can also be affected by the type of light source and any obstructions that may block or diffract the light.

5. What are the practical applications of Young's double slit experiment?

Young's double slit experiment has practical applications in fields such as optics, diffraction, and interferometry. It also serves as the basis for various technologies, including holography and optical gratings, which are used in devices such as CD and DVD players, laser printers, and spectrometers.

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