Single-slit and Multiple-slit Diffraction

• Describe single-slit diffraction intensity patterns.

The central maximum is considerably brighter compared to the
consecutive maximums.
o In what direction measured from the central maximum is the first
minimum found?
At 𝜽.
• Describe how single-slit diffraction modulates double-slit interference intensity
patterns.
The single-slit diffraction pattern modulates the two-slit pattern so that
the intensity is given by the blue curve. Peaks in the double-slit
experiments are of equal intensity because the slit width is negligible, in
the single-slit diffraction, the slit width is non-negligible.

• Describe multiple-slit intensity patterns.

For N slits, there are N-2 primary maxima, the intensity of the central
maximum is N^2 times the intensity of just one slit by itself.
 As the number of slits increases:
- The primary maxima are observed at the same angles.
- The primary maxima get narrower and brighter.
- The secondary maxima become unimportant.
• Describe intensity patterns from diffraction gratings (used to measure the
wavelengths of light).
A large number of narrow, parallel slits ensures that the maxima in the
interference pattern are sharp, narrow, and bright, have roughly the same
intensity, and are observed at the same angles. The secondary maxima
become unimportant.
o Derive the lattice equation.