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Physics

Key Equations

PhysicsKey Equations

17.1 Understanding Diffraction and Interference

speed of light, frequency, and wavelength c=fλ c=fλ
change of wavelength with index of refraction λ n = λ n λ n = λ n
two-slit constructive interference dsinθ=mλ dsinθ=mλ , for m = 0, 1, −1, 2, −2, …
two-slit destructive interference dsinθ=(m+½)λ dsinθ=(m+½)λ , for m = 0, 1, −1, 2, −2, …
one-slit, first-order destructive interference; wavelength related to dimensions Dy L =λ Dy L =λ
one-slit destructive interference Dsinθ=mλ Dsinθ=mλ

17.2 Applications of Diffraction, Interference, and Coherence

wavelength change with change in medium λ n = λ n λ n = λ n
diffraction grating constructive interference dsinθ=mλ dsinθ=mλ
resolution θ=1.22 λ D θ=1.22 λ D
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