Young's double slit experiment

In summary, in a Young's double slit experiment, the intensity of light at the centre of the fringe pattern is I. When one of the two identical slits is covered, the intensity at the centre becomes 0.25I. Using diffraction formulas, the answer can be calculated as 0.25I. Alternatively, considering density considerations, the energy from the source is concentrated in fewer places when both slits are open, resulting in a greater density and therefore a higher intensity. This explains why the intensity at the centre decreases to 0.25I when one slit is covered.
  • #1
somecelxis
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Homework Statement


In a Younf's double slit experiment , the intensity of light at the centre of fringe pattern is I. If one of the two identical slit is now covered , the intensity at the cnetre ANS is 0.25I.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


In my opinion, it should be 4I. because the light ray is now concentrated at smaller area, but i know that intensity = power /area . As the area is decreased is decreased , the intensity should increase , assuming the power is constant.
 
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  • #2
If you check against diffraction formulas, you'll see that the answer is [itex] \frac 1 4 I=0.25 I[/itex].
But if you want arguments using density considerations, I should say that when you have two slits open, there is interference which means you have dark and bright bands and so the energy coming from the source has less places to be at which means greater density in those places than when you have only one slit open where light has all the wall to be at.
 

1. What is Young's double slit experiment?

Young's double slit experiment is a classic experiment in physics that demonstrates the wave-like nature of light. It involves passing a beam of light through two parallel slits and observing the interference pattern that forms on a screen behind the slits.

2. How does the double slit experiment prove the wave-like nature of light?

The interference pattern observed in the double slit experiment can only be explained by the wave-like behavior of light. If light behaved like particles, it would create a simple pattern of two bright lines behind the slits, rather than the complex pattern of bright and dark fringes that is actually observed.

3. What is the significance of the distance between the slits in the double slit experiment?

The distance between the slits, also known as the slit separation, determines the spacing of the interference pattern on the screen. A smaller slit separation results in a wider spacing of the fringes, while a larger slit separation results in a narrower spacing.

4. Can the double slit experiment be performed with other types of waves?

Yes, the double slit experiment can be performed with any type of wave, not just light waves. This includes sound waves, water waves, and even electron waves. The interference pattern produced will depend on the properties of the wave being used.

5. What does the double slit experiment tell us about the nature of reality?

The double slit experiment challenges our understanding of reality by showing that particles, such as photons of light, can behave like waves and exhibit interference. This phenomenon is known as wave-particle duality and is a fundamental concept in quantum mechanics.

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