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Optics III: Diffraction & Interference
BlackBoard Notes

  • 3 experiments:
    1. Observe diffraction, interference patterns (single- and double-slit).
    2. Measure λ of red line of hydrogen.
    3. Measure extreme blue and red λ's of visible light.

  • Diffraction, interference:

    Single Slit Single Slit Single Slit
    Double-slit (narrow spacing) Double Slit Double Slit
    Double-slit (wider spacing) Double Slit Double Slit

  • Wavelength of red hydrogen light:

    Hydrogen mλ = d sinθ

    x/d

    m lambda

  • Limits of vision:

    Visible spectrum

    Visible light mλ = d sinθ

    d = 1900 nm
    What is m?

    Note: Can't use small angle approximation!!

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    Revised: 03 Apr 06 Canton, NY 13617