Single/double slit diffraction intensity

In summary, the intensity at maxima decreases further away from the central maxima in a single slit diffraction due to the interference of diffracted rays. When the slit width is negligible, the intensity of a double slit interference pattern is the same at each maximum, known as constructive interference. However, when the slit width is not negligible, the intensity may vary at different maxima. The separation between maxima is smaller when the slit separation is smaller, as seen in the formula s=λD/d. This can be explained in detail by understanding the interference patterns in single and double slit diffraction experiments.
  • #1
EF17xx
36
0

Homework Statement



SINGLE SLIT
Why does the intensity at maxima decrease further away from the central maxima in a single slit diffraction.

DOUBLE SLIT
Slit width:
Why is the intensity of a double slit interference pattern the same at each maxima. (constructive interference)
When the slit width is negligible

BUT NOT
when the slit width is not negligible.

2. Homework Equations
λ/b=sinθ
Intensity propoportional to Amplitude^2

The Attempt at a Solution


Could someone please explain using simple vocabulary/ terminology and examples/analogies as I sometimes get confused by very experienced physicists who assume I know what they're talking about. :) :)
 
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  • #2
Would also like to know why when slit separation is SMALLER the maxima are further apart.
I understand this is the case when simply looking at the formula. s=λD/d but could someone please put this into words for why it is like that.
 
  • #3
EF17xx said:

Homework Statement



SINGLE SLIT
Why does the intensity at maxima decrease further away from the central maxima in a single slit diffraction.

The Attempt at a Solution


Could someone please explain using simple vocabulary/ terminology and examples/analogies as I sometimes get confused by very experienced physicists who assume I know what they're talking about. :) :)

the single slit diffraction pattern and intensity distribution is a lab experiment and the intensity one observes is due to interference of diffracted rays. if you wish to understand it in detail
see
https://phys.libretexts.org/TextMap...ion/4.2:_Intensity_in_Single-Slit_Diffraction
and then proceed further.
 

FAQ: Single/double slit diffraction intensity

What is single/double slit diffraction intensity?

Single/double slit diffraction intensity refers to the pattern of light and dark fringes that appear when a beam of light passes through a single or double slit. This phenomenon occurs due to the wave-like nature of light, where the waves interfere with each other and create a diffraction pattern.

What is the difference between single and double slit diffraction intensity?

The main difference between single and double slit diffraction intensity is the number of slits through which the light passes. In single slit diffraction, there is only one slit, while in double slit diffraction, there are two parallel slits. This difference in the number of slits results in different diffraction patterns.

How is the intensity of the diffraction pattern affected by the width of the slit?

The intensity of the diffraction pattern is directly proportional to the width of the slit. A wider slit will result in a brighter and wider central maximum, while a narrower slit will result in a dimmer and narrower central maximum. This is because a wider slit allows more light to pass through and interfere, creating a more pronounced diffraction pattern.

What is the relationship between wavelength and the diffraction pattern in single/double slit diffraction?

The wavelength of the light being diffracted is inversely proportional to the width of the diffraction pattern. This means that as the wavelength increases, the width of the central maximum decreases, and vice versa. This relationship is described by the equation: w = λL/d, where w is the width of the central maximum, λ is the wavelength of the light, L is the distance from the slit to the screen, and d is the width of the slit.

What factors influence the shape and size of the diffraction pattern?

The size and shape of the diffraction pattern are influenced by several factors, including the width of the slit, the wavelength of the light, the distance between the slit and the screen, and the number of slits. These factors all affect the interference of the light waves and determine the resulting diffraction pattern.

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