Diffraction of Radiation

-When a parallel beam of radiation passes through a sharp barrier or through a narrow opening, then the beam is bent. -It is a wave property. -All types of electromagnetic radiation, mechanical or acoustical waves exhibit this property. -Diffraction can be observed in water wave of constant frequency. -The wave crest is observed before & after they pass through a rectangular opening, or slit. i)When the slit is wider than the wavelength(xy ): Diffraction is slight & difficult to detect. ii)When the slit & wavelength of it is same order of magnitude (XY= ), Diffraction becomes pronounced. Here, the slit behaves as new source from which wave radiate in a series of nearly 180 arcs.

-Bending in waves appears as a consequence of passing the two edges of the slit. -Same happens when light passes through the narrow slit.

-Diffraction brings about interference. -According to Thomas youngs Exp.(1800) A parallel beam of light is diffracted when it passes through a narrow slit. -It illuminates other two slits(equal size & equally spaced from the first slit). -The radiation emerging from these slits is observed on a screen. -These two pinholes or slits act as new source of light with identical frequencies & constant phase difference. -If the radiation is monochromatic , a series of dark & light images perpendicular to the plane of the page is observed. -If the crest of one wave falls on the crest of another wave or if the trough of one wave falls on the trough of another wave. The result is constructive interference(light).

-In the constructive interference the intensity of radiation is four times the that of individual wave. -If the trough of one wave falls on the crest of another , then the result is destructive interference(Dark). -Resultant displacement of amplitude(electric vector) in the destructive interference is minimum.