Diffraction & Interference
Investigation of wave-particle duality through single-slit diffraction and double-slit interference patterns.
Project Overview
This project explores physical optics, focusing on the wave nature of light. By passing coherent laser light ($\lambda = 650$ nm) through various microscopic apertures, I generated and analyzed interference patterns that classic ray optics cannot explain.
I precisely measured the intensity maxima and minima positions to verify the theoretical relationships for Single-Slit Diffraction ($a\sin\theta = m\lambda$) and Double-Slit Interference ($d\sin\theta = m\lambda$).
Key Concepts Investigated
Single-Slit Diffraction
Analyzed how a wavefront bends around a barrier, creating a central maximum and fading side fringes. Calculated the slit width $a$ from the fringe spacing.
Double-Slit Interference
Demonstrated the principle of superposition, where two coherent wavefronts constructively and destructively interfere. Measured the slit separation $d$ with high precision.
Babinet's Principle
Explored the complementary nature of diffraction patterns, showing that a thin wire produces the same diffraction pattern as a slit of the same width.
Full Documentation
The PDF below contains the experimental setup, interference pattern analysis, and calculations.