Double Slits, Calculating Wavelength

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In summary, the conversation discusses using a double-slit experiment to determine the wavelength of light being used to create an interference pattern. Three different methods are proposed, but there is uncertainty about one of them due to a lack of information. The individual plans to average out the three values they have obtained for the wavelength. There is also a discussion about the distance between nodal points and antinodal points and how it relates to finding the distance from the central maximum to the right bisector. There is uncertainty about the validity of this approach and the individual asks for further insight.
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Homework Statement



The following data was obtained upon using a double-slit experiment. Use this data to determine the wavelength of light being used to create the interference pattern. Do this in three different ways.

- The angle to the eight maximum is 1.12°
- The distance from the slits to the screen is 302 cm
- The distance from the first minimum to the fifth minimum is 2.95cm
- The distance between the slits is 0.025cm

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



My work is shown in this image: http://gyazo.com/b9625064b97100febb726a6f6a12236a

I believe I have interpreted the information correctly. I also believe methods 1 and 3 are correct as they were the most obvious. I have placed a series of question marks on method 2, which I am having trouble understanding. I don't believe they have given me sufficient information to solve this problem as is.

After I have 3 values for wavelength, I plan to average them out to get a final answer.

Does anyone have any insight to this? I seem to be missing a very important variable and I'm not sure how to go about it.
 
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Friendly bump, Is it safe to say this problem is not solvable?

If I knew the distance from a nodal line to the right bisector I could solve this, but I can't see how to get it for some reason.

All I seem to know is the distance between two consecutive nodal points, namely ##\Delta x = 0.7375cm##.

Would that mean half of that distance, ##\frac{\Delta x}{2}##, is the distance between a node and an antinode?

If so, could I not consider the distance between the central maximum (which is exactly where the right bisector would happen to be) and the closest node to it? That would give me a workable value of ##x_1 = \frac{\Delta x}{2}## and ##n = 1##.

This doesn't feel right to me though, does anyone have any thoughts?
 

FAQ: Double Slits, Calculating Wavelength

What is the double slit experiment?

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

How is wavelength calculated in the double slit experiment?

In the double slit experiment, the wavelength of light is calculated by measuring the distance between the slits, the distance between the slits and the screen, and the distance between the interference fringes on the screen. The formula used is: λ = d sinθ, where λ is the wavelength, d is the distance between the slits, and θ is the angle between the central maximum and the first-order maximum on the screen.

What factors affect the wavelength calculation in the double slit experiment?

The wavelength calculation in the double slit experiment is affected by the distance between the slits and the screen, the distance between the interference fringes on the screen, and the angle at which the interference pattern is observed. It is also affected by the type of light used, as different wavelengths of light will produce different interference patterns.

What is the significance of the double slit experiment?

The double slit experiment is significant because it provides evidence for the wave-particle duality of light. It shows that light can behave as both a wave and a particle, depending on how it is observed. This experiment also has implications for quantum mechanics and our understanding of the fundamental nature of reality.

Can the double slit experiment be applied to other types of waves?

Yes, the double slit experiment can be applied to other types of waves, such as sound waves or water waves. It can also be applied to particles, such as electrons, which also exhibit wave-like behavior. The experiment itself remains the same, but the calculations may differ depending on the properties of the specific type of wave or particle being studied.

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