Young's Double-Slit Experiment

In summary, to find the distance between two parallel slits illuminated with monochromatic light of wavelength 632.8 nm, we can use the equation d sin θ = n λ, where θ is the angle between the center of the central maximum and the center of the second side maximum. In this case, with an angle of .45 degrees and a value of n = 2, we can calculate the distance between the slits to be 1487.36 nm. However, it is important to note that .45 degrees and 45 degrees are not the same, so the resulting value for d may be incorrect.
  • #1
Aoiumi
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Homework Statement


When two parallel slits are illuminated with monochromatic light of wavelength 632.8 nm, the angle between the center of the central maximum and the center of the second side maximum is .45 degrees. What is the distance between the parallel slits.


Homework Equations



d sin θ = n λ



The Attempt at a Solution



d=2(632.8 nm)/sin 45 degrees

d = 1487.36 nm

My "d" value seems a bit odd, so I wanted to make sure I did this correctly. Note that I assigned "2" as the value of n because the problem said "second side maximum". Thank you.
 
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  • #2
.45 degrees and 45 degrees are not the same thing. Apart from that (and the resulting wrong value for d), it looks fine.
 
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  • #3
Okay. Thank you for the confirmation!
 

1. What is Young's Double-Slit Experiment?

Young's Double-Slit Experiment is a famous experiment in physics that was conducted by Thomas Young in the early 19th century to demonstrate the wave nature of light. It involves shining a light source through two parallel slits onto a screen and observing the interference pattern that is formed.

2. What does the experiment prove?

The experiment proves that light exhibits wave-like behavior, as the interference pattern that is formed on the screen can only be explained by the superposition of waves. This supports the wave theory of light proposed by Huygens and later confirmed by Maxwell's equations.

3. How does the setup of the experiment affect the interference pattern?

The interference pattern is affected by the distance between the two slits, the distance between the slits and the screen, and the wavelength of the light used. As these factors change, the interference pattern will either become more or less defined.

4. Can Young's Double-Slit Experiment be performed with other types of waves?

Yes, the experiment has been successfully performed with other types of waves such as sound waves and electron waves. This further supports the wave nature of these particles and their ability to interfere with each other.

5. What are the implications of Young's Double-Slit Experiment?

The implications of this experiment are significant, as it not only supports the wave theory of light but also provides evidence for the wave-particle duality of light and matter. It also paved the way for further research in quantum mechanics and the understanding of the fundamental nature of particles.

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