Final answer:
The distance between the slits of a diffraction grating can be calculated using d = λ / sin(θ), where d is the distance between the slits, λ is the wavelength of the light, and θ is the angle of diffraction. In this case, the correct option is a) (d = λ / sin(θ)).
Step-by-step explanation:
The distance between the slits of a diffraction grating that produces a first-order maximum for the first Balmer line can be calculated using the formula:
d = λ / sin(θ)
Where:
- d is the distance between the slits
- λ is the wavelength of the light
- θ is the angle of diffraction
In this case, the formula becomes:
d = λ / sin(20.0°)
Therefore, the correct option is a) ( d = λ / sin(θ) ).