Variable conditions of double slit interference

In summary, the conversation discusses a double slits experiment using red light and how the fringe pattern would change in two scenarios: moving the screen closer to the slits and blocking one of the double slits. The equations for calculating fringe separation are also mentioned. It is suggested that in scenario a, the fringe separation would decrease as the distance between the slits and screen decreases. In scenario b, there is uncertainty about the effect of blocking a slit on the wavelength and fringe separation.
  • #1
aurao2003
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0

Homework Statement



Hi
Can anyone help on this. The questions is as follows:

In a double slits experiment using red light, a fringe pattern is observed on a screen at a fixed distance from the double slits. How would the finge pattern change if:

a) The screen is moved closer to the slits
b)one of the double slits is blocked completely.


Homework Equations



a) The standard formula
W= (DX Wavelength)/s
W= Fringe seperation
D= distance of slit to the screen
s= distance between centre of the slits




The Attempt at a Solution


I surmised the following:
Since D Represents the distance of the slit from the the screen, it is a proportional relationship to the fringe seperation(W). So, if the distance is decreased less spaced.

b)I am not sure of this. Blocking one of the double slits seems to imply a reduced wavelength. Red has one of the longest wavelengths. From the above formula, it seems to suggest the same effect as above. But a part of me is suggesting there is an increased wavelength.

Please!
 
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  • #2
I have replied to this on TSR
 

Related to Variable conditions of double slit interference

1. 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 narrow slits and observing the resulting interference pattern on a screen.

2. How do variable conditions affect double slit interference?

The variable conditions in a double slit experiment can include changing the distance between the slits, the wavelength of the light, and the angle at which the light is shone through the slits. These changes can affect the interference pattern, causing it to either become more or less defined.

3. What is the relationship between the distance between the slits and the interference pattern?

The distance between the slits has a direct relationship with the interference pattern. As the distance between the slits decreases, the interference pattern becomes wider, with more distinct bands of light and dark. As the distance increases, the pattern becomes narrower and less defined.

4. How does changing the wavelength of light affect double slit interference?

The wavelength of light also has a direct relationship with the interference pattern. As the wavelength increases, the interference pattern becomes wider and less defined. As the wavelength decreases, the pattern becomes narrower and more defined.

5. What is the significance of the double slit experiment in understanding the nature of light?

The double slit experiment is significant because it provides evidence for the wave-particle duality of light. This means that light can behave as both a wave and a particle, depending on the conditions of the experiment. It also helped to support the development of quantum mechanics and our understanding of the fundamental nature of light.

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