A parallel beam of light with a wavelength of 600 …

Physics Questions

A parallel beam of light with a wavelength of 600 nm is normally incident on a slit with a width of 0.2 mm. If the resulting diffraction pattern is observed on a screen 1 m away, what are the distances to (i) the first minimum and (ii) the second maximum from the central maximum?

Short Answer

To calculate the positions of minima and maxima in a single-slit diffraction pattern, first understand the parameters: wavelength (600 nm), slit width (0.2 mm), and distance to screen (1 m). Use the formula ( x = frac{m cdot lambda cdot L}{d} ) to find the first minimum at 3 mm and the second maximum at 6 mm from the central maximum.

Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Understand the Parameters

To begin calculating the positions of minima and maxima in a single-slit diffraction pattern, familiarize yourself with the essential parameters. You’ll need:

  • Wavelength (λ): Given as 600 nm (600 x 10-9 m).
  • Slit width (d): Given as 0.2 mm (0.2 x 10-3 m).
  • Distance to screen (L): Given as 1 m.

Step 2: Use the Formula for Position Calculation

The position of the minima and maxima can be determined using the formula:

x = (m * λ * L) / d

Where:

  • x: Distance from the central maximum to the minimum or maximum.
  • m: Order of the minimum/maximum (1 for first minimum, 2 for second maximum).
  • λ: Wavelength of light.
  • L: Distance between the slit and the screen.
  • d: Width of the slit.

Step 3: Perform the Calculations

Now, apply the formula to find the distances:

  • First Minimum (m = 1): Use the formula to calculate. Result: x‚ÄöCA = 3 mm.
  • Second Maximum (m = 2): Again, apply the formula. Result: x‚ÄöCC = 6 mm.

This means the first minimum is 3 mm away, while the second maximum is 6 mm away from the central maximum in the diffraction pattern.

Related Concepts

Wavelength (λ)

A measure of the distance between successive peaks of a wave, typically expressed in meters or nanometers.

Slit Width (D)

The physical width of the slit through which light passes, impacting the diffraction pattern produced.

Distance To Screen (L)

The length from the slit to the projection surface (screen) where the diffraction pattern is observed, affecting the spread of the pattern.

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