Consider the double slit experiment for light. Complete each statement as it wou

Question

Consider the double slit experiment for light. Complete each statement as it would apply to Young's experiment (for each statement select "Increases", "Decreases", or "Cannot be Predicted"). If a variable is not mentioned, consider it to remain unchanged.

a) If the distance to the screen decreases, fringe separation ...?...

b) If the frequency of the light used increases, fringe separation ...?...

c) If the wavelength of the light used decreases, fringe separation ...?...

d) For the fringe separation to remain unchanged, wavelength ..?.. while the distance to the screen decreases.

e) If slit separation decreases, fringe separation ...?...

f) If slit separation decreases and the distance to the screen decreases, fringe separation ...?...

g)  If the distance to the screen triples and slit separation doubles, fringe separation ...?..

Explanation / Answer

The formula that applies here is y/L = m(wavelength)/d

We will analyze the formula to determine direct or inverse proportions and determine the effects.

Part A)

If L decreases, then y must decrease

Part B)

Since v = f(wavelength)

If frequency increases, wavelength decreases

Thus y will decrease

Part C)

Same as part B, y will decrease

Part D)

increases since both are directly proportional, if one reduces the other must grow to offset.

Part E)

They are inversely proportional

y will increase

Part F)

Can not determine since we are not told if they both decrease identically or differently

If they both decrease by the same amount, the fringe separation will not change. But since we are not specificall told, the actual solution can no be determined

Part G)

increases because the ratio of change is 3/2

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