In a single-slit diffraction pattern, what is the angular width of the central m
Practice Questions
Q1
In a single-slit diffraction pattern, what is the angular width of the central maximum if the slit width is 0.5 mm and light of wavelength 500 nm is used?
0.1 rad
0.2 rad
0.3 rad
0.4 rad
Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions
In a single-slit diffraction pattern, what is the angular width of the central maximum if the slit width is 0.5 mm and light of wavelength 500 nm is used?
Step 1: Identify the given values. The slit width (a) is 0.5 mm and the wavelength (λ) is 500 nm.
Step 2: Convert the units to be consistent. Convert 0.5 mm to meters: 0.5 mm = 0.5 x 10^-3 m.
Step 3: Convert 500 nm to meters: 500 nm = 500 x 10^-9 m.
Step 4: Use the formula for angular width of the central maximum in a single-slit diffraction pattern: Angular width = 2λ/a.
Step 5: Substitute the values into the formula: Angular width = 2(500 x 10^-9 m) / (0.5 x 10^-3 m).
Step 6: Calculate the result: Angular width = 2(500 x 10^-9) / (0.5 x 10^-3) = 0.002 rad.
