Applied Physics – Sem II

Module-3
Lecture: 13
DIFFRACTION

3.1 DIFFRACTION
3.1.1 MOTIVATION
In optics, a diffraction grating is an optical component with a periodic structure, which
splits and diffracts light into several beams travelling in different directions. The emerging
coloration is a form of structural coloration.[1][2] The directions of these beams depend on the
spacing of the grating and the wavelength of the light so that the grating acts as
the dispersive element. Because of this, gratings are commonly used
in monochromators and spectrometers.

3.1.2 Syllabus

Duration Self Study

Sr. No. Title
(Hrs) (Hrs)
Diffraction of Light – Introduction;
3.13 1 lecture 2 hour
Fraunhoffer diffraction at single slit ;
Fraunhoffer diffraction at Double slit; missing
3.14 1 lecture 1 hours
orders
Fraunhoffer diffraction at N parallel slits;
3.15 1 lecture 1 hours
missing orders, Highest possible orders;
determination of wavelength of light with a
3.16 1 lecture 2 hours
plane transmission grating;

3.17 resolving power of a grating 1 lecture 1 hours

3.18 Dispersive power of a grating. 1 lecture 1hours

3.1.3 WEIGHTAGE 10 to 15 Marks

3.1.4 LEARNING OBJECTIVES
• The diffraction phenomenon is studied for Fraunh offer method and its application to
grating spectra is analyzed.
• The limit of resolution between the two frequencies is fathomed with the example of
diffraction grating.
• Finally the diffraction technique in resolution and dispersion with its various
applications in the field is discussed in detail.
3.1.5 THEORITICAL BACKGROUND
• An interesting thing happens if you pass light through a large number of evenly
spaced parallel slits, called a diffraction grating.
• A diffraction grating is a large number of evenly spaced parallel slits.
• (a) Light passing through is diffracted in a pattern similar to a double slit, with bright
regions at various angles.
• (b) The pattern obtained for white light incident on a grating. The central maximum is
white, and the higher-order maxima disperse white light into a rainbow of colors.
3.1.6 KEY NOTATIONS
µ=refractive index of the medium
λ= wavelength of the source

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Module – 3 Diffraction

r= angle of refraction
i= angle of incidence
n= integer=1,2,3……….
R.P. = Resolving Power
β= fringe width

3.1.7 KEY DEFINITIONS

1. Fresnel’s diffraction: Both source and screen are at finite distance from slit and the
wave fronts are circular or spherical.
2. Fraunhoffer’s diffraction: Both the source and the screen are at infinite distance from
slit and the waveform are plane parallel.
3. Diffraction grating: Large number of narrow, parallel close and equidistant slits
separated by opaque portions.
4. Grating element: If ‘a’ is slit width and ‘b’ is the opaque region between adjacent slits
in a diffraction grating, then (a+b) = grating element.
5. Resolving power: Ability of a grating to resolve the closely spaced spectral lines.

3.1.8 IMPORTANT FORMULAES

1. In a thin film for reflected rays, the condition for the bright band is
2 µ t cos r = (2 n + 1)λ / 2
And the condition for the dark band,
2 µ t cos r = nλ
Where µ= refractive index
t= thickness of the film
θ=angle of refraction
2. For a single slit diffraction
asinθ =nλ for minima,
asinθ=(2n+1)λ/2 for maxima
where λ is the wavelength and the n= integer.
3. For a grating (a+b)=1/N
Where N= number of lines per cm., (a+b) = grating element.
4. For N parallel slits diffraction,
(a+b)sinθ=nλ condition for maxima
(a+b)sinθ=nλ/N condition for minima.
λ
5. Resolving Power R= =nN
dλ
n= order of spectrum,
N=number of lines

3.1.9.1 DIFFERACTION:
Types of diffraction:(Based on 1st, chapter 9, 1st edition, page 448)
The phenomenon of diffraction is divided into two types.
1) Fresnel diffraction : Diffraction phenomenon in which the light source and the
screen are at infinite distance from the diffracting aperture is known as Fresnel
diffraction
2) Fraunhoffer diffraction : Diffraction phenomenon in which the light source and
the screen are at infinite distance from the diffracting aperture is known as
Fraunhoffer diffraction.
Fraunhofer diffraction at a single slit (Based on 1st, chapter 9, 1st edition, page 448)
The diffraction pattern for a single slit can be derived using a phasor method .

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Applied Physics – Sem II

Consider a single slit of width a illuminated by monochromatic light of

wavelength λ .
We divide the slit into a large number N of narrow pseudo slits of equal width.
a
∆x =
N
The construction of each pseudo slit will be represented by a phasor. The amplitude of
the resulting wave is found by adding the N phasors.
For convenience in drawing, the slit of width ‘a’ has been split into 6 pseudo
slits . If we designate the phase difference between the Ist and last phasor as φ,
it will be the angle labeled as φ.

It is related to the path difference

δ = a sin θ . by rfelation
2Π 2Π
φ= δ = (a sin θ )
λ λ
Each strip (pseudo slit) acts as a radiator of Huygen’s wavelets and produces a
characteristic wave disturbance at any point on the screen. If the strips are narrow ,
all points on a given strip have the same optical path length up to the point. Hence a
light from the strip arrive at the point with same phase.
The angle of diffraction dθ is very small. Hence, the amplitudes of the waves reaching
the point from various strips is same.
The phase difference between the waves reaching at the point from adjacent strips is
2Π
∆φ = (∆ x sin θ )
λ
Thus at a point, N phases with the same amplitude the same frequency and the same
phase difference ∆φ between adjacent waves combine to produce a resultant wave
disturbance of amplitude Eθ .
I) When θ = 0, at the center of the diffraction pattern, the phase difference
between the waves from the adjacent strips = 0. Hence the resultant amplitude is
maximum Em
II) When θ≠ 0, ∆φ≠ 0 and so the array of arrows approaches an are of a circle of
radii
R if N as very large and so the resultant is Eθ . The length of the arc is Em.

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Module – 3 Diffraction

In the above fig (B), from the right triangle with apex angle
φ
2 we see that
Eθ
= R sin φ / 2. − − − − − (24)
2
length of arc
Also φ =
radius
E
= m
R
E
this gives R = m − − − − − (25)
φ
from (3) & (4)
2 Em φ
Eθ = sin − − − − − −(26)
φ 2
sin α
= Em
α
φ Π
where α = = a sin θ . − − − − − (27)
2 λ

∴equation (26) with (27) gives the amplitude for the single slit diffraction pattern at
an angle θ .
The intensity Iθ is proportional to the square of the amplitude.
2
 sin α 
Iθ = Im  
 α 
where I m = Em 2 = max imum amplitude.

Conditions for maxima and minima in the single slit diffraction pattern:-
a) Principal maximum
The resultant amplitude in diffraction pattern of a single slit is gives by
E sin α E  α3 α5 α7 
Eθ = m = m α − + − + ....
α α  3! 5! 7! 
when sin α is written in ascending power of α where
Π
α= a sin θ .
λ
 α2 α4 α6 
∴ Eθ = Em 1 − + − + ....
 3! 4! 7! 
For Eθ to be max imum , the − ve term in the bracket must vanish.
Π
This is possible only when α = 0 i.e. α = a sin θ = 0.
λ
or sin θ = 0
or θ = 0.

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b) Minimum intensity positions (minima)

2
 sin α 
The intensity Iθ = I m   will be zero in the diffraction pattern, at position
 α 
where sin α = 0,
The values of α which satisfy that equation are
α =mΠ
m = ± 1, ± 2, ± 3......
Π
α = a sin θ = m Π
λ
Hence, the condition for minima is a sin θ = mλ .
m = 0 is not possible ∵ θ become zero which corresponds to the principal
maximum. The position of minima are on either side of principal maximum.

c) Secondary maxima
Analysis shows that the secondary maxima lie approximately half way between the
minima..
They are formed from.
(
α = ± n + 12 Π )
n = 1, 2,3.....
or a sin θ = (2n + 1) λ .
2
substituting this value of α in Iθ .
2
 α
Iθ = I m  sin  we get
 α
 
Iθ
=
 sin (m + )
1 Π
2 2
Im   1
m + Π 
  2 
1
= 2
 1  2
 m +  .Π
 2
This gives for m = 1, 2,3.....
Iθ
= .045, .016, .0083......
Im
The successive maxima decrease in intensity rapidly.

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Module – 3 Diffraction

Let’s check take away from lecture

1. In Fresnel’s diffraction
(a) source of light is kept at infinite distance from the aperture
(b) source of light is kept at finite distance from the aperture
(c) convex lens is used
(d) aperture width is selected so that it can act as a point source

2. The diffraction phenomenon is

(a) bending of light around an obstacle
(b) rectilinear propagation of light
(c) oscillation of light wave in one direction
(d) none of the above

Problem:
1.A light of 500nm wavelength is incident normally on a single slit. The first minimum of the
Fraunh offer diffraction pattern is observe to lie at a distance of 5x 10-3 m from the central
maximum on a screen placed at a distance of 2m away from the slit. What is the width of the
slit?
Solution: The condition for minima in the Fraunh offer diffraction pattern produced due to a
single slit is
a sin θ = nλ , n = 1, 2,3....
Here, λ = 500 × 10−9 m,
n = 1,
D=2m ,
X=5x10-3 m.
For very small θ, sinθ = tanθ≈θ radian.
x 5 × 10 −3
θ= = = 2.5 × 10−3 rad
D 2
∴ a sin θ = 1× 500 ×10 −9
500 × 10 −9
∴a =
2.5 × 10 −3
= 2.0 × 10 −4 m
= 0.2mm

Exercise:
1. What is difference between Interference & diffraction?
2. State 2 types of diffraction & differentiate them.
3. Describe Fraunhoffer diffraction at single slit
Questions/problems practice for a day
1. Obtain conditions for maxima & minima for Fraunhoffer single slit diffraction.

Learning outcome from the topic: students will be able to derive the mathematical
expression of Fraunh offers diffraction at a single slit .( both quantitavely and
qualitatively)

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Applied Physics – Sem II

Lecture: 14
3.1.9.2. Franhoufer Diffraction at Double Slit
(Based on 1st, chapter 9, 1st edition, page 465)
Consider a beam of monochromatic light of wavelength λ incident normally an two
narrow shits AB and CD.
Let ‘a’ be the width of each slit and ‘b’ be the width of opaque space BC separating
the two slits such that ‘a’ and ‘b’ are comparable. The diffracted light is focused on
the screen by a convex lens L. The diffraction pattern is found to be consist of
equally spaced interference maxima and minima in the region originally occupied by
the central maximum in the single slit Fraunhofer diffraction pattern.
The central interference maximum possesses maximum intensity while the maxima on
either side of it are of gradually decreasing intensity . In the region originally
occupied by the secondary maxima of single slit diffraction pattern , faint interference
maxima and minima are observed.

From the theory of diffraction at a single slit , we see that the resultant amplitude
due to all wavelets diffracted from each slit at an angle θ with normal is given by
sin α
Eθ = Em .
α
where Em = max imum amplitude
at Po and
Π
α = . a sin θ
λ
Now, from the figure , the resultant amplitude at point P will be due to the
interference of two waves of same amplitude E θ and having a phase difference that
depends on the path difference between the two.
The path difference between the waves from S1 and S2 at P is
S 2 N = S1 S 2 sin θ
= ( a + b) sin θ
2Π
∴ the corresponding phase difference is ( a + b)sin θ = 2 β .
λ

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Module – 3 Diffraction

Treating the slits individually, If 2α is phase difference between the extreme rays
from each slit then.
2Π
2α = a sin θ . where
λ
α = Π λ a sin θ .
The resultant intensity of diffraction pattern depends on two factors.

Em 2 sin 2 α
i ) The term gives the diffraction pattern due to
α2
sin gle slit.
Em 2 sin 2 α
The var iation of with α is fig (a )
α2
ii ) The term cos 2 β gives the int erference pattern due to li
light
waves of same amplitude from the two slits.
Cos 2 β vs R is given as fig (b)
The resul tan t int ensity distruction is

Let’s check take away from lecture

1. Missing orders are
(a) related to Slit width a and b
(b) not related to a and b
(c) both above true.
Solved Problems:
1. In a double slit Fraunhofer diffraction pattern, the screen is 160 cm away from the slits. The
slit width are 0.08 mm and they are 0.4 mm apart. Calculate the wavelength of light if the
fringe spacing is 0.25 cm. Also find missing orders.
Ans. d=0.25 cm, D= 160cm

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Applied Physics – Sem II

Hint: The fringe spacing β= λD/ 2d = λ=β(2d) /D=6250 x 10 -8

For missing order a+b /a =n/m
B=0.04 cm and a =0.008 cm
N =6m, where m =1,2,3,4… =n max
N =6,12,18,…
Exercise:
1. Explain vector addition method
2.. Explain the effect of increasing the number of slits
3. Explain the missing order in double slit diffraction.
Questions/problems practice for a day
day:
1. Explain the double slit diffraction pattern and bring out the difference from single slit.

Learning from the topic: Students will be able to bring out the difference
diffe in intensity
distribution profile from the single slit diffraction with double slit diffraction pattern

Lecture: 15
3.1.9.3 Diffraction at N parallel slits (Based on 1st, chapter 9, 1st edition, page 476)

An arrangement consisting of a large no of parallel slits of the same width separated

by equal opaque spaces is called as diffraction grating.
Consider the diffraction pattern of N parallel slits each of width ‘a’ and separated by
equal opaque spaces ‘b’
∴ d = (a + b) to called the grating element
element.
Let a plane wave front of wavelength λ be incident normally an the slits.
According toHuygen’s principle , the instant, the incident wave font occupies the plain
of the slit, every point in the slit is regarded as the origin of secondary wavelets
which spreads out in all directions.
Hence ray are diffracted from each slit in all direction.

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Module – 3 Diffraction

The resultant amplitude of light from a single slit of width a in a direction making
angle θ with the normal is given by
 sin α 
Eθ = Em  
 α 
Π
α = a sin θ
λ
To find the interference pattern for N slits, we make use of phasors.
Assuming each phasors to have amplitude Po , the phasor diagram is shown in fig
The phase angle φ in phasor diagram is the phase angle corresponding to the path
difference δ.
∴ δ = N d sin θ
path diff .
and sin ce phase angle = 2Π ×
λ
2ΠN d sin θ
∴ we have φ =
λ
2ΠN (a + b)sin θ
=
λ
The path difference between waves from adjacent slits.
δ
= d sin θ .
N
So, the phase difference between than
2Π 2Π
∆φ = . d sin θ = (a + b) sin θ
λ λ
= 2β
If ‘R’ is the radius of phasors diagram formed by N no. of slits, the amplitude of
diffracted light from each slit is E1, E2 …… EN. From fig.
E1
= R sin β − − − − − (28)
2
Π
where β = (a + b)sin θ .
λ
Eθ
= R sin N β − − − − − (29)
2
from equations (1) and (2)
Eθ sin N β
=
E1 sin β
sin N β
Eθ = E1 − − − − − (30)
sin β
But E1 = E2 = ….EN is amplitude of diffracted light from single slit from single slit
diffraction.

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Applied Physics – Sem II

sin α
E1 = E 2 = ....E N = E m
α
∴ equ .(3) becames.
sin α sin N β
Eθ = E m .
α sin β
Intensity as square of the amplitude.
2
 sin α  sin N β
2
Iθ = I m   .
 α  sin 2 β
2
 sin α 
The first factor I m .  
 α 
gives the int ensity distrubution due to sin gle slit .
sin 2 N β
The sec ond factor is said to give the int erference pattern
sin 2 β
due to N slits.
Condition for principal maxima and minima in the intensity pattern of a grating:-
a) Principal Maxima
The condition for principal maxima is that the path difference between the waves of
adjacent slits must be an integer multiple of λ.
( a + b ) sin θ = m λ , m = 0,1, 2, ...
Π
i .e β = ( a + b ) sin θ
λ
Π
= .m λ = m Π.
λ
sin N β
F or these values of β , becom es in d et er m in ate .
sin β
B ut by L H ospital rule .
Lt sin N β Lt N cos N β
=
β → m Π sin β β → mΠ cos β
N cos N mΠ
= = + N.
cos m Π
Hence the int ensity of principal max ima is given as
 sin 2 α 
Iθ = N 2  I m .
 α 2 
Hence the condition for the principal max ima is
β = ± m Π.
Π
or ( a + b) sin θ = ± m Π.
λ
or (a + b) sin θ = ± m λ.
Here, m = 0, 1, 2, 3,
m is called order number.
m = 0 is zero order maximum i.e. central maximum which occurs at Po in a direction
θ = 0.
For m = 1, 2, 3…..etc, we get principal maxima, 1st order, 2nd order and higher order

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Module – 3 Diffraction

maxima, respectively.
Minima
Now intensity of light at P is minimum when
Sin N β = 0.
put sin β ≠ 0.
∴ N β = ± mΠ
Where “m” can have all integral values except 0, N, 2N….nN because for there values
of m, sin β becomes zero and we get principal maxima.
Π
∴ substituting for β = ( a + b) sin θ .
λ
Π
we get N . ( a + b ) sin θ = m Π.
λ
= N ( a + b) sin θ = m λ .
where m can have all integral values except 0, N, 2N….nN.

Secondary maxima
2) As there as (N – 1) minima between two adjacent principal maxima , there must be (N
other maxima between two adjacent principal maxima.
Condition for absent spectra /Missing Orders (Based on 1st, chapter 9, 1st edition, page
487)
Principal maxima in a grating are obtained by
(a + b) sin θ = mλ. − − − − − (31)
Also min ima in a sin gle slit is given by
a sin θ = n λ.
n = 1,2,3..... − − − − − −(32)
and Intensity in N slits is combined effect of single slit + N slits
 s in 2 α  s in 2 N β
Iθ = I m  2 . 2
 α  s in β
If b o th th e c o n d itio n s (3 1) a n d (3 2 ) a r e s a tis fie d th e n
a+b m
= − − − − − (3 3)
a n
is th e c o n d itio n fo r a b s e n t s p e c tr a
If a = b th e n (3 3) b e c o m e s
m
= 2.
n
o r m = 2 n. n = 1, 2 , 3 ......
nd th th
∴ 2 , 4 , 6 o r d e r s p e c tr a w ill b e a b s e n t .

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Applied Physics – Sem II

Diffraction: single slit

-2 -1 0 1 2
REVIEW :
• For double (and multiple) slits:
nλ = (a+b) sin(θn ) for M AXIMUM
(for ALL n)
-2 -1 0 1 2

• For single slit:

nλ = a sin(θ n ) for M INIM UM
(for all n EXCEPT 0)

Let’s check take away from lecture

1. The (a+b) sinθ=nλ is
(a) For maxima (b) For minima (c) None of the above
Problem:
1) How many orders will be visible if the wavelength of incident radiation is 5000A and the
number of lines on the grating is 2620 to an inch?
Solution: We have, condition of maxima,
(a+b)sinθ = nλ
For maximum orders, θ= 90°
So, (a+b) = nλ,
( a + b)
n=
λ
2.54
But ( a + b) = cm,
2620

λ = 5000 ×10 −8 cm
2.54
n=
2620 × 5000 × 10−8

= 19.4
2. Monochromatic light of λ= 6560 A fails normally on a grating of 2cm wide. The first order is
produced at an angle 19º from the normal. What is the total number of lines on the grating?
Solution: λ = 6560 A
n=1
θ = 19°
Now(a + b) sin19° = 6560 × 10−8

6560 × 10−8
∴ ( a + b) =
sin19°

2
n=
( a + b)
2sin19°
=
6560 × 10 −8

= 9925

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Module – 3 Diffraction

3. What is the longest wavelength that can be observed in the fourth order for a transmission
grating having 5000 lines per cm?
Solution: n=4,
1
(a + b) = cm
5000
For the longest wavelength, sinθ = 1
(a + b) 1
∴λ = = = 5 × 10 −5 cm
n 5000 × 4

= 5000 × 10 −8 cm.
The longest wavelength = 5000Aº
Problem. Deduce the missing orders for a double slit Fraunhoffer diffraction pattern if the
slit width is 0.16mm and they are 0.8mm apart.
Solution: The direction of interference maxima are given by the equation
(a+b)sinθ = nλ…………………………………………………………………………..(1)
The direction of diffraction minima are given by the equation
asinθ = pλ……………………………………………………………………………….(2)
(1)/(2) gives
(a + b) n
=
a p
a= .016cm, b= .080cm
n .016 + 0.08
∴ = =6
p 0.016
∴n = 6 p
For values of p=1, 2,3…etc and n=6,12,18 etc the interference maxima will be missing in the
diffraction pattern.
Exercise:
1. If the source is replaced by a yellow one of wavelength 5890 A0 and then by a violet
one of wavelength 4300 A0, how many orders would be observed in each case?
2. Red light of wavelength 7500 A0 is normally incident on a plane diffraction grating
having 6000 lines/ cm. How many diffraction orders are observed?
3. A slit of width 0.3mm is illuminated by a light of wavelength 5890A. A lens whose
focal length is 40 cm forms a Fraunhoffer’s diffraction pattern. Calculate the distance
between first dark and next bright fringe from the axis.
Questions/problems practice for a day
1. A diffraction grating used at normal incidences gives a line 6000 A0 in a certain order
which is superimposed on the other line 4500 A0 of the next order. If the angle of diffraction
is 330, how many lines / cm are there is the grating?

Learning from the topic: Learning from the topic: The expression for missing order is
understood for the spectra.

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Lecture: 16
3.1.9.16 Diffraction grating (Based
Based on 1st, chapter 9, 1st edition, page 480)

The principle maxima in a grating are formed in a direction θ given by

( a + b ) sin θ = n λ
where (a + b) = grating element.
n = order of spectrum
λ = wavelength of incident light.
1) For a particular wavelength λ , the angle of diffraction θ is different for principal
maxima of different orders.
2) For while light ( many wavelengths) and for a particular order n, the light of different
wavelength will be diffraction in different direction.

The maxima become narrower with more slits in the grating

Uses
A diffraction grating is often used in laboratories to test the wavelength of light. The
number of lines per inch of grating are written over it by the manufacturers.

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Module – 3 Diffraction

Hence, the grating element is given by,

1 2.54
( a + b) = =
No. of lines / cm No. of lines / inch.
U sin g equation.
( a + b) sin θ = mλ .
the unknown wavelength λ can be calculated .

Note: The maxima become narrower with more slits in the grating.

Let’s check take away from lecture

The diffraction pattern depends on
(a) Number of slits and width of slits
(b) Only number of slits
(c) Independent of number of slits
(d) None of the above
Solved Problems: A plane transmission grating has 6000 lines/cm. Calculate the highest
order spectrum which can be seen with a light of wavelengths 4000 A.
Ans. λ= 4000 A. N= 6000 lines/cm
HINT :(a+b) sin θ max =n max λ
N max =(a+b) /λ=4

Exercise:
1. What is grating and grating element?
2. Sodium light of wavelength 5890 A0 falls normally on a plane diffraction grating
having 6000 lines per centimeter. How many diffraction orders will be observed?
3. Explain how the number of lines on grating decides the maximum number of
orders of diffraction
Questions/problems practice for a day
1. For plane transmission grating prove that dsinθ = nλ , n=1,2,3

Learning outcome from the topic: The learners will be able to understand the
experimental set up of diffraction using grating.

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Lecture: 17
3.1.9.18. Resolving power of an optical Instrument (Based on 1st, chapter 9, 1st edition, page
539)
An optical instrument is said to be able to resolve two point objects if the
corresponding diffraction pattern are distinguishable from each other. The ability of
the instrument to produce just separate diffraction pattern of two close objects is
known as its resolving
lving power.

Rayleigh’s Criterion of Resolution

Two closely spaced point sources of light are said to be just resolved by an optical
instrument only if the central maximum in the diffraction pattern of one waveform
falls over the Ist minimum in the diffraction pattern of the other waveform and vice –
versa.

Resolving power of a grating

The angular separation between two spatial lines may be very small indeed. However, a
grating is capable of resolving the image of the slit formed by the two spectral lines
of wavelength λ and ( λ + d λ )

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Module – 3 Diffraction

The resolving power of a grating is defined as the smallest wavelength difference d λ

for which the spectral lines can be first resolved at the wavelength λ, and is
mathematically
Given as
λ
R=
dλ
Let XY be the grating surface and MN is the field of view of the telescope.
P1 is the mthprimary maximum of a spectral line wavelength λ at angle of diffraction
θm . P2 is the mth primary maximum of a second spectral line of wavelength λ + d λ at a
diffracting angle θ m + dθ m .
P1 and P2 are the spectral line of mth order. These two spectral lines according to
Rayleigh’s criterion will appear resolved, if the position of principle maxima of P2 also
corresponds to the 1st minimum of P1 .
The direction of the mth primary maximum for a wavelength λ is given b
(a + b) sin θm = m λ
The direction of m thmth primary maximum for a wavelength ( λ + d λ ) is given by
( a + b ) sin (θ m + dθ m ) = m ( λ + d λ ) (34)
The two lines will appear just resolved if the angle of diffraction (θ m + dθ m ) also
corresponds to the mth primary of 1st minimum after the nth primary maximum at P1 .
(corresponding to λ ).
This is possible , if the extra path difference introduced is λ m , where N is the total
number of line on the grating surface.
∴ (a + b) sin (θ m + dθ m ) = m λ + λ . − − − − − (35)
N
(34) = (35)
λ
∴ m(λ + d λ ) = mλ + .
N
λ
md λ =
N
λ
R= = mN .
dλ
This equation gives the resolving power of a grating.
The resolving power is
a) Independent of grating power is
b) directly proportional to order of spectrum directly proportional to the total number
offline on the grating surface.
Let’s check take away from lecture
The resolving power is
a) Dependent ofgrating power is
b) directly proportional to order of spectrum directly proportional to the total number
of lines on the grating surface.
c) All of above
Solved Problem: Calculate the minimum number of lines in a grating which will just resolve
in the first order the lines whose wavelengths are 5890Aº and 5896A°.
Solution: n=1, λ1= 5890 Aº, λ2=5896A°.

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Applied Physics – Sem II

∴ Mean wavelength λ = 5893A°.

λ
R.P. = nN=
dλ
λ 1
N= .
dλ n
5893 × 10 −10 1
= ×
6 × 10 −10 1

= 981.6

Exercise:
1. What is Resolving power of diffraction grating?
2. What is Rayleigh criteria of resolution
3. Monochromatic light of λ = 6500 A0 falls normally on agrating 2 cm wide. The 1st order
spectrum is produced at an angle of 190 from the normal. What is the total number of
lines on the grating.
Questions/problems practice for a day
1. How will you increase the resolving power of grating?

Learning from the topic:

Students will be able to understand the concept of resolving power and bring the
relationship of resolving power with order of spectrum in a grating.

Lecture: 18
3.1.9.19 Dispersive Power of Grating
Dispersive power of a grating is defined as the ratio of the difference in the angle of
diffraction of any two neighboring spectral lines to the difference in the wavelength between
the two spectral lines. It can also be defined as the diffraction in the angle of diffraction per
unit change in wavelength. The diffraction of the n the order principal maximum for a
wavelength λ is given by the equation,
(a + b) sin θ = nλ (i)
Differentiating this equation with respect to θ and λ (a + b is constant and n is constant in a
given order)
(a + b) cos θ dθ = n dλ
In equation (ii) dθ/dλ is the dispersive power, n is the order of the spectrum, N’ is the
number of lines per cm m of the grating surface and θ is the angle of diffraction for the n the
order principal maximum of wavelength λ.

Let’s check take away from lecture

Dispersive power given by (a + b) cos θ dθ = n dλ
a) Depends on order

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Module – 3 Diffraction

b) Doesn’t depend on order

c) None of the above.

Questions/problems practice for a day

1. What is dispersive power of grating? Write an expression for it .

Learning from the topic: Dispersive power and resolving power will be understood as a two
different phenomenon.

Add to Knowledge (Content beyond syllabus)

Applications of grating
The grooves of a compact disc can act as a grating and produce iridescent reflections.
Diffraction gratings are often used in monochromators, spectrometers, lasers, wavelength division
multiplexing devices, optical pulse compressing devices, and many other optical instruments.
Ordinary pressed CD and DVD media are every-day examples of diffraction gratings and can be
used to demonstrate the effect by reflecting sunlight off them onto a white wall. This is a side
effect of their manufacture, as one surface of a CD has many small pits in the plastic, arranged in a
spiral; that surface has a thin layer of metal applied to make the pits more visible. The structure of
a DVD is optically similar, although it may have more than one pitted surface, and all pitted
surfaces are inside the disc.[8][9]
Due to the sensitivity to the refractive index of the media, diffraction grating can be used as sensor
of fluid properties.[10]
In a standard pressed vinyl record when viewed from a low angle perpendicular to the grooves, a
similar but less defined effect to that in a CD/DVD is seen. This is due to viewing angle (less than
the critical angle of reflection of the black vinyl) and the path of the light being reflected due to this
being changed by the grooves, leaving a rainbow relief pattern behind.
Diffraction gratings are also used to distribute evenly the frontlight of e-readers such as the Nook
Simple Touch with GlowLight.[11]
Gratings from electronic components[edit]
Diffraction of a spotlight over a mobile phone
Some everyday electronic components contain fine and regular patterns, and as a result readily
serve as diffraction gratings. For example, CCD sensors from discarded mobile phones and
cameras can be removed from the device. With a laser pointer, diffraction can reveal the spatial
structure of the CCD sensors.[12] This can be done for LCD or LED displays of smart phones as
well. Because such displays are usually protected just by transparent casing, experiments can be
done without damaging the phones. If accurate measurements are not intended, a spotlight can
reveal the diffraction patterns.

Know:-
1. Learner should be able to define the Fresnel’s and Frounhoffers Diffraction
2. Learner should be able to explain the Diffraction by single slit.
3. Learner should be able to explain applications of grating.

Comprehend:-
4. Learner should be able to derive the conditions for Diffraction in single slit, Double
slit and multiple slit.
5. Learner should be able to explain the –missing orders in double slit
6. Learner should be able to compare the missing orders in double slit and multiple
slit.

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Applied Physics – Sem II

7. Learner should be able to derive the condition for maxima and minima conditions in
grating spectra.
Apply, Analyze &synthesize:-
8. Learner should be able to evaluate the resolving power with respect to increase in
the number of slit.
9. Learner should be able to analyze the effect of slit width on grating.
Self Assessment
1. What is difference between the Fresnel’s and Frounhoffers Diffraction? [Level-1]
2. Derive the condition for a Diffraction in single slit, Double slit and multiple slit.
[Level-2]
3. What are Rayleigh’s criteria for resolution [Level-3]
4. Explain the condition for maxima and minima due to Diffraction in a grating [Level-4]
5. What is dispersive power? [Level 5]

3.10 SHORT ANSWERS QUESTIONS:

1. Differentiate between interference and diffraction?

Ans. Maxima in interference have same intensity and in diffraction it has varying
intensity.
2. What is Fresnel’s diffraction?
Ans. Both source and screen are at finite distance from slit and the wave fronts are circular
or spherical.
3. What is Fraunhoffer’s Diffraction?
Ans. Both the source and the screen are at infinite distance from slit and the waveform is
plane parallel.
4. What is Diffraction grating?
Ans. Large number of narrow, parallel close and equidistant slits separated by opaque portion
5. State Rayleigh’s criteria of resolution?
Ans. Two spectra are just resolved if the central maximum in diffraction pattern of one object
coincides with Ist minimum other and vice versa.

3.11 LONG ANSWERS QUESTIONS

1. Discuss the phenomenon of Fraunhofer diffraction at double slit and obtain condition for
intensity.
2. What is grating element? Give the construction of a plane diffraction grating and for N
number of slits in the grating, how it is used to determine the wave length of spectral lines in
the laboratory. Obtain the condition for first secondary minima after the central maxima.
Also write in general number of secondary minima and number of secondary maxima in
between two primary maxima.
3. If the light of wavelength λ is incident on a grating of spacing ‘d’ at an incident angle ψ
and if θ is the angle of diffraction, show that the condition for diffraction maxim um is –d
(sin ψ + sin θ ) = n λ where n = 0, 1, 2, 3,……
4. Comment on absent spectra in grating.
5. Distinguish between Fresnel Diffraction and Fraunhoffer diffraction
6. Write short note on a) Resolving power, b) Dispersive power

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Module – 3 Diffraction

3.14 UNIVERSITY QUESTIONS PROBLEMS

1. In Fraunhoffer diffraction due to a single slit of width 0.2 mm, a screen is placed 2m away
from the lens, to obtain the pattern. The first minima lie 5mm on either side of central
maximum. Compute the wavelength of light. (May 2008)
2. How many orders will be observed by grating having 4000 lines per cm, if it is illuminated
by light of wavelength in the range 5000 A0 to 7000 A0 (May 2009)
3. A diffraction grating used at normal incidence gives lines 5400A in certain order
superimposed on another line 4050A of the next higher order. If the angle of diffraction is 30,
how many lines/cm are there on the grating? (May 2010)
4. Light incident on a grating of 0.5cm wide with 3000lines. Find angular separation in 2nd
order of two sodium lines 5893A and 5896A. Check whether those two lines are resolved in
2nd order or not? (Dec 2010)

THEORY
1. What do you mean by diffraction and state its types? (May2009, 3 Marks)
2. What are the types of diffraction and differentiate between them. (Dec.2009, 3 Marks)
3. What is grating and grating element? Explain the experiment method of determination
of4.wavelength of spectral line using diffraction grating. (Dec.2009 ,8 Marks)
4. What is diffraction grating. What is the advantage of increasing the number of lines in a
grating? (May 2010, 3marks)
5. What is Rayleigh’s criteria of resolution? Write expression for the resolving power of a
grating (May 2010 ,3marks)
6. What particular spectra would be absent, when the width of the opacity is double than that
of the transparency in a grating. (Dec 2010 ,3marks)

7. What do you mean by diffraction and state its types. (Dec 2011 ,3marks)

8. What is diffraction. Grating? What is the advantage of increasing the number of lines in a
grating? In an experiment with grating, third order spectral line of wavelength A., coincides
with the fourth order spectral line of wavelength 4992 A. Calculate the value of λ
(Dec 2011 ,8marks)
9. A diffraction grating used at normal incidence gives a line 5400 A o in certain order
superimposed on another line 4050 Ao of the next higher order. If the angle of diffraction is
30o,how many lines/cm are there on the grating. (Dec 2012, 5marks)
10. Explain the experimental method of determination of wavelength of spectral line using
diffraction grating. (Dec 2012, 5marks)
11. In a plane transmission grating, the angle of diffraction for second order principal maximum
for the wavelength 5000A is 30. Calculate the number of lines/cm of the grating surface.
(June 2013, 5marks)
12. Monochromatic light of wavelength 6560A falls normally on a grating 2cm wide. The first
order spectrum is produced at an angle of 160 17’ from the normal. Calculate the total
number of lines on the grating. (June 2013, 7marks)
13. Derive the condition for absent spectra in grating. (June 2013, 5marks)
14. What is the highest order spectrum, which may be seen with monochromatic light of
wavelength 6000A0 by means of a diffraction grating with 5000 lines/cm?
(Nov 2013, 5marks)
15. A plane grating just resolves two lines in the second order. Calculate the grating element if
dࣅ=6A0, ࣅ =6x10-5 cm and the width of the ruled surface is 2 cm (Nov 2013, 5marks)
16. What is rayleighs criteria of resolution? What is resolving power of diffraction grating?
(June 2014, 3 marks)

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Applied Physics – Sem II

17. What is grating element? Derive condition for maximum grating at diffracting gratings?
(June 2014, 5 marks)
18. In plane transmission grating, the angle of diffraction for the second order principal
maximum for the wavelength is 5x10-5cm is 300. Calculate the number of lines per cm in
diffraction grating. (June 2014, 5 marks)
19. What is grating and grating element. (Dec 2014, 3M)
20. Or plane transmission grating proves that d sinθ = nλ, n=1, 2, 3… (Dec 2014, 5M)
21. Calculate the minimum number of lines in a grating which will just resolve in the first order
whose wavelengths are 5890 A0 and 58960. (Dec 2014, 5M)
22. What are Rayleigh’s criteria of resolution? Define resolving
power of a grating. (June 2015, 3M)
23. Calculate the maximum order of the diffraction maxima seen from a plane diffraction
grating having 5500 lines per cm if light of wavelength 5896A falls normally on it.
(June 2015, 5M)
24. A slit of width 0.3mm is illuminated by a light of wavelength 5890A. A lens whose focal
length is 40 cm forms a Fraunhoffer’s diffraction pattern. Calculate the distance between first
dark and next bright fringe from the axis. (June 2015, 5M)
25. What is meant by diffraction? State its types and differentiate them.(Dec 2015, 3M)
26. A grating has 620 rulings /mm and is 5.05 mm wide. What is the smallest wavelength-
interval that can be resolved in the third order at wavelength 48.1nm? (June 16, 3M)
27. Explain the experimental method to determine the wavelength of spectral line using
diffraction grating? (June 16, 5M)
28. A diffraction grating used at normal incidence gives a yellow line (wavelength=6000A°)in a
certain spectral order superimposed on a blue line (wavelength=4800A°) of the next higher
order if the angle of diffraction is sin 1(3/4), calculate the grating element. (June 16, 5M)
29. What is Rayleigh’s criterion of resolution? Define resolving power of a grating.
(DEC 2017, 3M)
30. Explain the experimental method to determine the wavelength of spectral line using
diffraction grating. A diffraction grating has 5000lines/cm & the total ruled width is
5cm. Calculate dispersion for a wavelength of 5000 A0 in the second order.
(DEC 2017, 8M)
31. What is grating & grating element? (June 2017, 3M)
32. Explain the experimental method to determine the wavelength of spectral line using
diffraction grating. What is the highest order spectrum which can be seen with
monocromatic light of wavelength 6000A0 by means of a diffraction grating with5000
lines/cm? (JUNE 2017, 8M)
33. What is diffraction grating? What is the use of increasing the number of lines in
diffraction grating? (JUNE 2018, 3M)
34. Discuss Fraunhofers diffraction of single slit and obtain the condition of minima. In plane
transmission grating the angle ofDiffractionin second order of principal maxima for
wavelength 5000A is 35. Calculate no. of lines/cm on diffraction grating. (JUNE 2018,
8M)
3.15 Practices for Chapter No. 3 Diffraction (Based on University Pattern)
1. Attempt any five (15M)
(a) What is diffraction grating. What is the advantage of increasing the number of lines in a
grating? (3marks)
(b) What are Rayleigh’s criteria of resolution? Write expression for the resolving power of a
grating (3marks)
(c) A grating has 620 rulings /mm and is 5.05 mm wide. What is the smallest wavelength-
interval that can be resolved in the third order at wavelength 48.1nm. (3marks)

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Module – 3 Diffraction

(d) What is meant by diffraction? State its types and differentiate them. (3marks)
(e) How can one increase the resolving power of a diffraction grating? (3marks)
(f) What is grating and grating element. (3marks)
2. (a)Discuss the phenomenon of Fraunhofer diffraction at double slit and obtain condition
forintensity (8marks)
(b) Red light of wavelength 7500 A0 is normally incident on a plane diffraction grating
having 6000 lines/ cm. How many diffraction orders are observed?
If the source is replaced by a yellow one of wavelength 5890 A0 and then by a violet one
of wavelength 4300 A0, how many orders would be observed in each case. (7)
3. (a) What is grating element? Give the construction of a plane diffraction grating and for N
number of slits in the grating, how it is used to determine the wave length of spectral
lines in the laboratory. Obtain the condition for first secondary minima after the central
maxima. Also write in general number of secondary minima and number of secondary
maxima in between two primary maxima. (8)
(b) If the light of wavelength λ is incident on a grating of spacing ‘d’ at an incident angle
ψ and if θ is the angle of diffraction, show that the condition for diffraction maxim um
is –d (sin ψ + sin θ ) = n λ where n = 0, 1, 2, 3,…… (7)
4. (a) Explain the experimental method to determine the wavelength of spectral line using
diffraction grating? (5M)

(a) A diffraction grating used at normal incidence gives a yellow line

(wavelength=6000A°)in a certain spectral order superimposed on a blue line
(wavelength=4800A°) of the next higher order if the angle of diffraction is sin 1(3/4),
calculate the grating element. (5M)
(b) Calculate the maximum order of the diffraction maxima seen from a plane diffraction
grating having 5500 lines per cm if light of wavelength 5896A falls normally on it. (5M)

5. (a)Calculate the minimum number of lines in a grating which will just resolve in the first
order whose wavelengths are 5890 A0 and 58960. (5M)
(b) Derive the condition for absent spectra in grating. (5M)
(c) What is the highest order spectrum, which may be seen with monochromatic light of
wavelength 6000A0 by means of a diffraction grating with 5000 lines/cm? (5M)
6. (a)A plane grating just resolves two lines in the second order. Calculate the grating element
if dࣅ=6A0, =6x10-5 cm and the width of the ruled surface is 2 cm (5M)
(b)A slit of width 0.3mm is illuminated by a light of wavelength 5890A. A lens whose focal
length is 40 cm forms a Fraunhoffer’s diffraction pattern. Calculate the distance between first
dark and next bright fringe from the axis.
(c) Explain the experimental method of determination of wavelength of spectral line using
diffraction grating. (5marks)

3.16 REFERENCES
1) A textbook of optics by N. Subrahmanyam and Brijlal 1st edition S Chand Publication
2) A textbook of Engineering physics by Kshirasagar&Avadhanulu s Chand Publication
3) Engineering physics by Uma Mukherji Ist Edition , Narosa Publication
4) Engineering physics by Gaur & Gupta, Ist edition.

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Applied Physics – Sem II

Self Evaluation
1. Are you able to explain working of diffraction grating?
(a) Yes (b) No
2. Do you understand the concept of single, double and N parallel slits?
(a) Yes (b) No
3. Are you able to explain resolution and Rayleigh’s criteria?
(a) Yes (b) No
4. Do you know, the various applications of diffraction?
(a) Yes (b) No
5. Do you understand the module ?

(a) Yes, Completely (b) Partialy (c) No, Not at all

78