Physics Question about Diffraction Gradings

In summary, the highest possible order of interference maximum that can occur when monochromatic light with a wavelength of 560 nm illuminates a diffraction grating with 4000 lines/cm is 0.224. This is calculated using the formula I=mλ/d and rounding down the result of d/λ. However, the answer given was incorrect and the speaker suspects a mistake may have been made in the calculation.
  • #1
tnbstudent
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0
Question:
What is the highest order of interference maximum that can occur when monochromatic light with a wavelength of 560 nm illuminates a diffraction grating with 4000 lines/cm?

Attempt:
I thought this seemed really easy, but my answer was incorrect.
λ=560nm
Since there are 4000 lines per centimeter - I solved for the distance between two slits to be 2.5*10^-6 meters.
Using I=mλ/d and m=1 to to achieve the max I got 0.224 but that was incorrect

I think I've made a silly error but I'm not sure what it is - can someone point me in a direction
 
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  • #2
The max number of orders is d/λ which must be rounded down if it is not a whole number
 
  • #3
Thank you!
 

FAQ: Physics Question about Diffraction Gradings

What is diffraction grading in physics?

Diffraction grading is a phenomenon in physics where light waves passing through a narrow slit or obstacle are spread out into a pattern of bright and dark fringes. This occurs due to the wave-like nature of light and is often used to analyze the properties of light and other electromagnetic waves.

How is diffraction grading used in physics?

Diffraction grading is used in various applications in physics, such as measuring the wavelength of light, analyzing the structure of crystals, and creating optical devices like spectrometers. It is also used in experiments to study the properties of light and other electromagnetic waves.

What factors affect the diffraction pattern in diffraction grading?

The factors that affect the diffraction pattern in diffraction grading include the size of the slit or obstacle, the wavelength of the light, the distance between the slit or obstacle and the screen, and the angle at which the light passes through the slit or obstacle.

What is the difference between diffraction grading and interference?

Diffraction grading and interference are both phenomena related to the behavior of light. However, while diffraction grading is caused by the bending of light waves around obstacles or slits, interference is the result of the interaction between two or more waves. Diffraction grading produces a pattern of multiple bright and dark fringes, while interference produces a pattern of alternating bright and dark bands.

What are some real-life applications of diffraction grading?

Diffraction grading has various real-life applications, such as in microscopes, telescopes, and other optical instruments. It is also used in the production of holograms, in the analysis of crystal structures, and in optical communications. It is also used in everyday items like CD and DVD players, where the diffraction of light is used to read data from the discs.

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