(UESTIONS 1. Explain the phenomena of interference and diffraction. Explain the
ID: 2076134 • Letter: #
Question
(UESTIONS 1. Explain the phenomena of interference and diffraction. Explain the difference between the two. Laser light of wavelength 632.8 nm and intensity 1200 Wlm is incident normally on two parallel narrow slits separated by 0.60 mm: the resulting double-slit interference pattern is projected on a distant screen. Use Mathematica or similar software to graph the intensity I of the pattern as a function of the angle e from the central axis between slits and screen for -0.003 rad s 0 s +0.003 rad; assume that the slits are so narrow that diffraction effects may be ignored. Based on the results, describe in wo what the interference pattern rds projected on the screen looks like. Create similar plots for slightly larger and smaller slit separations. Describe in words the effect of slit separation on the interference pattem.Explanation / Answer
Intterference -In physics, interference is a phenomenon in which two waves superimpose to form a resultant wave of greater or lower amplitude. Interference usually refers to the interaction of waves that are correlated or coherent with each other, either because they come from the same source or because they have the same (or nearly the same) frequency. Interference effects can be observed with all types of waves, including light, radio, acoustic, and surface water waves.
The principle of superposition of waves states that when two or more waves are incident on the same point, the total displacement at that point is equal to the vector sum of the displacements of the individual waves. If a crest of a wave meets a crest of another wave of the same frequency at the same point, then the magnitude of the displacement is the sum of the individual magnitudes; this is known as constructive interference. If a crest of one wave meets a trough of another wave, then the magnitude of the displacements is equal to the difference in the individual magnitudes; this is known as destructive interference.
Diffraction - Diffraction refers to various phenomena that occur when a wave encounters an obstacle. In classical physics, the diffraction phenomenon is described as the apparent bending of waves around small obstacles and the spreading out of waves past small openings. Similar effects occur when light waves travel through a medium with a varying refractive index or a sound wave through one with varying acoustic impedance. Diffraction occurs with all waves, including sound waves, water waves, and electromagnetic waves such as visible light, X-rays, and radio waves. As physical objects have wave-like properties (at the atomic level), diffraction also occurs with matter and can be studied according to the principles of quantum mechanics. Italian scientist Francesco Maria Grimaldi coined the word diffraction and was the first to record accurate observations of the phenomenon in 1665.
Related Questions
Navigate
Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.