Problem 14-83 Diffraction - Part 4 - C

A point source emits light of wavelength \(520\; nm\) toward a single slit of width \(0.085\; mm\). The light creates a diffraction pattern on a screen located \(2.2 \;m\) from the screen.

(a) What is the width of the central maximum?
(b) What angle do the first order fringes subtend with the slit?

[Ans. (a) \(2.7 \;cm\)   (b) \(0.70^\circ\)]


Accumulated Solution

Diagram B of the width of the central maximum.

\(\sin \theta = x/L = N \lambda/w \\ N = 1\)

\(\text{Width (central max)} = 2.7\; cm\; \text{ (answer to part (a))}\)


Correct!

Which angle defines the angle subtended by the first order fringe?

Three possible diagrams showing the angle subtended by the first order fringe; A, B, C.

(A)

(B)

(C)