Young's Double Slits - Derivation & Formula

  • Thread starter metalmaniac
  • Start date
In summary, the Young's double slit formula is derived from the principles of wave interference, specifically through the use of a double slit experiment. This experiment, conducted by Thomas Young, provided evidence for the wave nature of light and the phenomenon of interference. The formula is used in practical applications such as diffraction gratings and interferometers, and can also be applied to other types of waves. However, the accuracy of the formula can be affected by various factors such as slit spacing, wavelength, and medium properties.
  • #1
metalmaniac
4
0
Have a look at this.

http://www.matter.org.uk/schools/content/interference/formula.html"

I follow the derivation of the formula. However it seems to follow from the diagram that:

λ=ssin(arctan(w/D))

Without the need for the approximation sinx ≈ tanx.

I can't see how this can be true because why would we use λ=sw/D if we have an exact form.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Often you don't need the extra precision, and the approximation highlights the key concepts/features for a cursory understanding of the matter.
There's nothing wrong with the exact solution, of course.
 
  • #3
Oh okay, thanks.
 

1. What is the derivation of Young's double slit formula?

The Young's double slit formula is derived from the principles of wave interference. It involves the use of the double slit experiment, where a light source is shone through two parallel slits and the resulting interference pattern is observed on a screen. By analyzing the geometric properties of the slits and the path difference of the waves, the formula can be derived.

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

The double slit experiment conducted by Thomas Young in the early 1800s provided strong evidence for the wave nature of light. It also demonstrated the phenomenon of interference, where waves can interact and create regions of constructive and destructive interference. This experiment has been replicated and expanded upon by many scientists, contributing to our understanding of light and waves.

3. How is the Young's double slit formula used in practical applications?

The Young's double slit formula is used in various practical applications, such as in diffraction gratings and interferometers. It also has applications in the field of optics, where it is used to calculate the wavelengths of light and to design optical devices such as lenses and filters.

4. Can the Young's double slit formula be applied to other types of waves?

Yes, the principles behind the Young's double slit formula can be applied to other types of waves, such as sound waves and water waves. As long as the waves exhibit interference patterns, the formula can be used to analyze and predict their behavior.

5. What factors can affect the accuracy of the Young's double slit formula?

The accuracy of the Young's double slit formula can be affected by various factors, such as the spacing between the slits, the wavelength of the waves, and the distance between the slits and the screen. Other factors, such as the intensity of the light source and the properties of the medium through which the waves are traveling, can also impact the accuracy of the formula.

Similar threads

B Explanation for bright fringes in Single Slit Diffraction
    • Classical Physics
Replies
4
Views
332
I Young's double slit: why fringes gets dimmer and inconsistent?
    • Classical Physics
Replies
4
Views
2K
B Where Does Energy Go in Young's Double Slit Experiment?
    • Classical Physics
Replies
12
Views
2K
Thomas Young's double slit experiment
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
3K
Second bright fringe in Young's Experiment
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
548
I "Wave-particle duality" and double-slit experiment
    • Quantum Physics
2
Replies
36
Views
1K
A Probabilities of couples of impacts - Bob and Alice and Young experiment
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
16
Views
964
Single Slit and Diffraction Grating Formulas
    • Optics
Replies
6
Views
5K
B Can Fringes Exist with Sine Value Greater Than 1 in Young's Double Slit Formula?
    • Other Physics Topics
Replies
8
Views
4K
B Slit Distance - Young's Double Slit Experiment
    • Other Physics Topics
Replies
1
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top