Label the double-slit interference diagram: (1) Slits, (2) Screen, (3) Central Maximum, (4) First Order Maximum.
1: Slits, 2: Screen, 3: Central Maximum (m=0), 4: First Order Maximum (m=1)
Label the diffraction grating spectrum: (1) Central Maximum, (2) Red Light, (3) Violet Light.
1: Central Maximum (white), 2: Red Light (farthest from center), 3: Violet Light (closest to center)
Define 'constructive interference'.
When two or more waves overlap in phase, resulting in a wave with a larger amplitude.
Define 'destructive interference'.
When two or more waves overlap out of phase, resulting in a wave with a smaller amplitude or cancellation.
What is 'monochromatic light'?
Light of a single wavelength or frequency.
Define 'path length difference'.
The difference in the distance traveled by two waves from coherent sources to a given point.
What is a 'diffraction grating'?
An optical component with many evenly spaced parallel slits or openings that diffract light and create interference patterns.
Define 'diffraction'.
The bending of waves around obstacles or through apertures.
What is the effect of increasing the slit separation (d) in double-slit interference?
The fringe spacing decreases.
What is the effect of increasing the wavelength ($lambda$) of light in double-slit interference?
The fringe spacing increases.
What happens when white light is used instead of monochromatic light in double-slit experiment?
The central fringe is white, but the other fringes are dispersed into a spectrum of colors.
What is the effect of increasing the number of slits in a diffraction grating?
The bright fringes become sharper and more intense.
What happens if the path length difference is an integer multiple of the wavelength?
Constructive interference occurs, resulting in a bright fringe.
What happens if the path length difference is a half-integer multiple of the wavelength?
Destructive interference occurs, resulting in a dark fringe.
