Question

Coherent light from a sodium-vapor lamp is passed through a filter that blocks everything except for light of a single wavelength. It then falls on two slits separated by 0.490 mm . In the resulting interference pattern on a screen 2.12 m away, adjacent bright fringes are separated by 2.86 mm . For related problem-solving tips and strategies, you may want to view a Video Tutor Solution of Determining wavelength. Part A What is the wavelength of the light that falls on the slits

Answer 1

λ = 6.61 x 10⁻⁷ m = 661 nm

Step-by-step explanation:

From the Young's Double Slit experiment, the the spacing between adjacent bright or dark fringes is given by the following formula:

Δx = λL/d

where,

Δx = fringe spacing = 2.86 mm = 2.86 x ⁻³ m

L = Distance between slits and screen = 2.12 m

d = slit separation = 0.49 mm = 0.49 x 10⁻³ m

λ = wavelength of light = ?

Therefore,

2.86 x 10⁻³ m = λ(2.12 m)/(0.49 x 10⁻³ m)

(2.86 x 10⁻³ m)(0.49 x 10⁻³ m)/(2.12 m) = λ

λ = 6.61 x 10⁻⁷ m = 661 nm