Chapter 23: Problem 44
In Young's double slit experiment, the 7 th maximum with wavelength \(\lambda_{1}\) is at a distance \(d_{1}\) and that with wavelength \(\lambda_{2}\) is at a distance \(d_{2}\). Then \(\left(d_{1} / d_{2}\right)\) is (a) \(\left(\lambda_{1} / \lambda_{2}\right)\) (b) \(\left(\lambda_{2} / \lambda_{1}\right)\) (c) \(\left(\lambda_{1}^{2} / \lambda_{2}^{2}\right)\) (d) \(\left(\lambda_{2}^{2} / \lambda_{1}^{2}\right)\)
Short Answer
Step by step solution
Understanding the Problem
Formula for Fringe Position
Apply the Formula for Two Wavelengths
Derive the Ratio \(\frac{d_1}{d_2}\)
Conclusion
Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!
-
Full Textbook Solutions
Get detailed explanations and key concepts
-
Unlimited Al creation
Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...
-
Ads-free access
To over 500 millions flashcards
-
Money-back guarantee
We refund you if you fail your exam.
Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with 91Ó°ÊÓ!
Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
The Role of Wavelength in Young's Double Slit Experiment
More specifically:
- Constructive interference occurs when waves meet in phase. This results in a bright fringe or maximum, and it happens when the path difference is an integral multiple of the wavelength (\( m \cdot \lambda \)).
- Destructive interference occurs when waves meet out of phase, resulting in a dark fringe or minimum. This happens when the path difference is a half-integral multiple of the wavelength.
Understanding Fringe Position
The position of these fringes is determined by the formula: \[ d = \frac{m \cdot \lambda \cdot L}{a} \]Where:
- \(d\) is the fringe position measured from the central maximum or center of the pattern.
- \(m\) is the order number of the maximum (e.g., 1, 2, 3 ...).
- \(\lambda\) represents the wavelength of the light used in the experiment.
- \(L\) is the distance from the double slits to the screen.
- \(a\) is the distance between the two slits.
An Overview of Optics in the Experiment
Exploring optics in this context:
- The wave behavior of light is confirmed by how it spreads out or diffracts as it passes through the slits.
- When light waves overlap or superpose, they either amplify or cancel each other, leading to visible interference patterns.
- The phenomena seen during the experiment highlight light’s dual nature, exhibiting both wave-like and particle-like properties.
Interference Patterns: The Backbone of the Experiment
To understand these patterns:
- They result from constructive interference, which creates bright fringes, and destructive interference, creating dark fringes.
- The regularity and spacing of the patterns provide insights into wavelengths and slit spacing, revealing information like color and energy levels of light.
- Similar setups can be used to explore various light properties and test theories within physics.