Calculating Wavelength from Double-Slit Interference Pattern

In summary, the experiment involves creating a double-slit interference pattern using two narrow slits spaced 0.21mm apart. The distance between the first and fifth minimum on a screen 60cm behind the slits is 6.2mm. The equation used to solve for the wavelength of the light used is gamma = d/L * Delta y, where delta y is the distance between the minima and L is the distance to the screen. However, in the given attempt, the distance between the minima was incorrectly calculated as 1.24*10^-3m instead of 3.1*10^-3m, resulting in an incorrect wavelength of 434nm.
  • #1
cupcakequeen
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Homework Statement



A double-slit interference pattern is created by two narrow slits spaced 0.21mm apart. The distance between the first and the fifth minimum on a screen 60cm behind the slits is 6.2mm. What is the wavelength of the light used in this experiment?


Homework Equations



gamma = d/L * Delta y

The Attempt at a Solution



delta y = 6.2mm/5 = 1.24*10 ^-3m
gamma = d/L delta y
= (2.1*10^-4m)/0.6m * 1.24*10^-3
= 434nm
but this is incorrect. Where did I go wrong?
 
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  • #2
If the 6.2 mm was the distance between the first and second minima, would you say the distance between the minima is Δy = 6.2 mm/2?
 

Related to Calculating Wavelength from Double-Slit Interference Pattern

1. What is Double-slit Interference?

Double-slit interference is a phenomenon in which a wave, such as light or sound, passing through two parallel slits creates an interference pattern on a screen behind the slits. This occurs due to the wave nature of light or sound, and the interference between the waves passing through the two slits.

2. How does Double-slit Interference work?

When a wave passes through two parallel slits, it creates two sets of waves that overlap and interfere with each other. This interference results in a pattern of bright and dark fringes on the screen behind the slits. The bright fringes correspond to areas where the waves are in phase (constructive interference), while the dark fringes correspond to areas where the waves are out of phase (destructive interference).

3. What is the significance of Double-slit Interference?

Double-slit interference is significant because it provides evidence for the wave nature of light and other waves. It also demonstrates the principle of superposition, which states that when two waves meet, their amplitudes add together. This phenomenon has also been used in various technologies, such as diffraction gratings and interferometers.

4. Can Double-slit Interference occur with particles?

Yes, Double-slit Interference can occur with particles, such as electrons, as well. This phenomenon is known as wave-particle duality, which states that particles can exhibit both wave-like and particle-like behavior. The interference pattern observed with particles is similar to that observed with waves, providing further evidence for the duality of matter.

5. How does the distance between the slits affect the interference pattern?

The distance between the slits has a significant effect on the interference pattern. When the distance is increased, the fringes on the screen become narrower and closer together. Conversely, when the distance is decreased, the fringes become wider and further apart. This is because the distance between the slits affects the phase difference between the waves passing through them, which determines the interference pattern.

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