C.3 Wave phenomena HL

Question 1

Young’s Double-Slit Experiment

Answer 1

Demonstrates the wave nature of light; coherent light passing through two slits creates an interference pattern of bright and dark fringes due to constructive and destructive interference.

Question 2

Single-Slit Diffraction

Answer 2

When light passes through a single narrow slit, it spreads out due to diffraction, forming a pattern of bright and dark fringes due to constructive and destructive interference.

Question 3

Equation for Single-Slit Diffraction

Answer 3

θ= λ/b, where θ is the angle to the first minimum, λ is the wavelength, and b is the slit width.

Question 4

Diffraction Grating

Answer 4

A tool that contains multiple slits used to disperse light into a spectrum. The interference pattern produced is more defined with the increase in slit numbers.

Question 5

Equation for Diffraction Grating

Answer 5

nλ=dsinθ where n is the order of maxima, λ is the wavelength, d is the slit separation, and θ is the angle of diffraction

Question 6

Multiple-Slit Diffraction

Answer 6

When light passes through multiple slits, the interference patterns from each slit combine, producing a complex pattern with highly defined maxima and varying intensities.