PHYSICS LAB MANUALS

SINGLE SLIT DIFFRACTION

  • In the diffraction pattern, maximum intensity fringes are obtained when constructive interference takes place, the condition for which is given by $$d \sin \theta = n \lambda $$ Where
    \(d\) is slit width
    \(\theta\) is angle made by light wave, leading to intensity maxima, with horizontal
    n = 0, ±1, ±2, ±3… is the order of maxima
    \(\lambda\) is wavelength of light
  • Wavelength of light can be determined from the fringe width of the diffraction pattern, given by $$\lambda = \frac{yd}{nD}$$
    \(y\) is distance of intensity maxima fringe from central maxima (fringe width)
    \(D\) is distance between slit and screen