Chapter 25.2, Problem 2TH

The graph of intensity versus angle at right corresponds to a double−slit experiment similar to the one described in problem 1.

In each part below, suppose that a single change were made to the original apparatus. In the spaces provided, show how the graph of intensity versus angle would be different from the original graph (shown dashed). In each case, explain your reasoning.

• the distance between the centers of the slits is increased (without changing the width of the slits)

• the wavelength of the incident light is increased

• the distance from the mask to the screen is decreased

• the width of both slits is decreased (without changing the distance between the centers of the slits)

• the width of one of the slits is decreased (without changing the distance between the centers of the slits) [Sketch the approximate shape of the intensity versus angle graph.]