In a diffraction pattern produced by a single slit, what happens to the central maximum when the slit width is decreased? (2022)

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Q: In a diffraction pattern produced by a single slit, what happens to the central maximum when the slit width is decreased? (2022)

Solution: Decreasing the slit width increases the diffraction angle, causing the central maximum to become wider.

Steps: 5

Step 1: Understand what a diffraction pattern is. It is the pattern created when light passes through a narrow opening (slit) and spreads out.
Step 2: Identify the central maximum. This is the brightest and widest part of the diffraction pattern, located in the center.
Step 3: Know what happens when the slit width decreases. A smaller slit means that light waves can spread out more.
Step 4: Realize that as the slit width decreases, the angle at which the light spreads out (diffraction angle) increases.
Step 5: Conclude that a larger diffraction angle means the central maximum will be wider, as the light spreads out more.