Intensity of single slit and double slit

In summary, the intensity patterns of a single slit and double slit differ in that a single slit has a central bright maximum with alternating dark and bright fringes, while a double slit has multiple bright fringes with decreasing intensity. The width of the slits affects the width of the central maximum and spacing between fringes. The intensity decreases as you move away from the center in a double slit pattern due to interference. The intensity pattern can also be affected by the wavelength of light used, with a longer wavelength resulting in a wider spacing between fringes. Finally, the intensity pattern of a double slit can be manipulated by changing the distance between the slits, the distance between the slits and the screen, or the wavelength of light used.
  • #1
gsingh2011
115
1
After looking at the graphs of single slit and double slit interference of intensity vs. angle, it seems that the intensity drops off very steeply with single slit interference but doesn't drop off at all with double slit interference patterns. Why is that?
 
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  • #2
The intensity will go up and down as it drops off, but it does drop off for both.
 

Related to Intensity of single slit and double slit

1. What is the difference between the intensity patterns of a single slit and double slit?

The intensity pattern of a single slit consists of a central bright maximum with alternating dark and bright fringes on either side, while the intensity pattern of a double slit consists of multiple bright fringes with decreasing intensity as you move away from the center.

2. How does the width of the slits affect the intensity pattern?

The width of the slits determines the width of the central maximum and the spacing between fringes in both single and double slit patterns. A wider slit will result in a wider central maximum and wider spacing between fringes, while a narrower slit will result in a narrower central maximum and closer spacing between fringes.

3. Why does the intensity decrease as you move away from the center in a double slit pattern?

This is due to the phenomenon of interference, where the waves from the two slits interfere constructively at the center and destructively at the fringes. This results in a decrease in intensity at the fringes compared to the central maximum.

4. Can the intensity pattern of a single or double slit be affected by the wavelength of light used?

Yes, the intensity pattern will change with the wavelength of light used. As the wavelength increases, the spacing between fringes in both single and double slit patterns will also increase. This is known as the diffraction limit.

5. How can the intensity pattern of a double slit be manipulated?

The intensity pattern of a double slit can be manipulated by changing the distance between the slits, the distance between the slits and the screen, or the wavelength of light used. Altering these parameters will result in a different spacing and intensity pattern.

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