Why single slit diffraction occurs and make sure you are clear on the differences and similarities between the equations for single slit maxima and minima and double slit maxima and minima (they look really really similar but there are subtle differences)

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1 September, 23:25

Why single slit diffraction occurs and make sure you are clear on the differences and similarities between the equations for single slit maxima and minima and double slit maxima and minima (they look really really similar but there are subtle differences)

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Johan Pratt · Answer 1

The differences between the equations for single slit maxima and minima and double slit maxima and minima are

In single slit experiment,

1) central fringe produce on screen is twice as wide as the other fringe.

2) Intensity of fringes decreases as we go to the successive maxima away from the centre.

Double slit experiment,

1) Fringe width produced on the screen is of same size.

2) Fringes produced on the screen is of same intensity.

The similarities between the equations for single slit maxima and minima and double slit maxima and minima are

Both single slit and double slit produce the maximum and minima on the screen. Both have central maxima of bright intensity.

Both produce the interference pattern on the screen, constructive and destructive interference pattern on the screen.