DAV PUBLIC SCHOOL

PHYSICS INVESTIGATORY
PROJECT REPORT
TOPIC: DIFFRACTION OF LIGHT
SUBJECT: PHYSICS
CLASS: XII-A
SESSION:2023-2024
NAME OF STUDENT: RAUNAK OJHA
CBSE ROLL NO :
 CERTIFICATE
DAV PUBLIC SCHOOL JASOLA VIHAR This is to certify that
RAUNAK OJHA student of class XII-A has successfully completed
the research on project carried out under the guidance of Ms.VIBHA
GERA (TGT PHYSICS) during the year 2023-2024 in particular
fulfillment of the curriculum of Central Board Of Secondary Education
[CBSE] , New Delhi.

SIGNATURE OF EXAMINER
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
In the accomplishment of this project successfully, many people
have bestowed upon me their blessings and the heart pledged
support, this time I am utilizing to thank all the people who have
been concerned with project.
Primarily I would thank god for being able to complete this project
with success. Then I would like to thank my Principal Mr. V.K.
BARTHWAL and PHYSICS teacher Ms. VIBHA GERA for
her valuable guidance. I would also like to thank the laboratory
assistant Mr. VIJAY PAL in developing the project.
 INDEX
1. Title of investigatory project
2. Objective
3. Introduction
4. Materials
5. Experimental Procedure
6. Data Analysis
7. Analysis and Conclusion
8. Presentation
9. References
 Title of investigatory project

Title: Exploring the Phenomenon of Light

Diffraction
 Objective

1.The objective of this project is to investigate understand the phenomenon of

light diffraction.

2.Through a series of experiments and analyses, we aim to explore the

behavior of light as it interacts with various obstacles and apertures, leading to
the diffraction patterns observed.
 Introduction
1.Light diffraction is a phenomenon that occurs when light encounters an
obstacle or passes through an aperture, causing it to spread and create
distinctive patterns.

2.This project will delve into the fundamental principles of light diffraction,
providing insights into the nature of light waves and their behavior.
 Materials
1.Laser pointer (with a well-defined beam)
2.Thin slit
3.Double-slit apparatus
4.Diffraction grating
5.White screen or wall
6.Protractor
7.Ruler
8.Adjustable lens and lens holder
9.Mirror
10.Black cloth or dark room for enhanced visibility
 Experimental Procedure
Experiment 1: Single-Slit Diffraction
1.Set up the laser pointer to produce a narrow,
collimated beam of light.
2.Position the thin slit perpendicular to the incident
light beam.
3.Place the white screen a suitable distance away to
observe the diffraction pattern.
4.Gradually adjust the width of the slit, observing and
recording changes in the diffraction pattern.
5.Measure the angles of diffraction using a protractor
and record the data.
Experiment 2: Double-Slit Diffraction

1.Replace the single slit with a double-slit apparatus.

2.Adjust the distance between the slits and the screen.
3.Observe and record the interference pattern formed on the screen.
4. Measure the distances between adjacent maxima and minima.
5. Compare the observed pattern with theoretical expectations for
double-slit diffraction. p
Experiment 3: Diffraction Grating
1.Replace the double-slit apparatus with a
diffraction grating.
2.Adjust the grating's position and angle to the
incident beam.
3.Observe and record the diffraction pattern
produced on the screen.
4.Measure the angles of diffraction and determine
the order of the spectra.
5. Calculate the grating spacing using the observed
data.
Experimental 4: Lens and mirror setup
1.Introduce a lens and mirror into the experimental setup.
2.Direct the laser beam through the lens and onto the mirror.
3.Observe the changes in the diffraction pattern as the lens is moved.
4.Analyze the impact of the lens on the diffraction pattern and record
observations.
Experiment 5: Advanced Diffraction Patterns
1.Explore more complex diffraction patterns using different obstacles.
2.Introduce irregular shapes and observe their impact on diffraction.
3.Record the patterns formed and analyze the effects of various
geometries.
 Data Analysis
1.Plot graphs of diffraction patterns and angles for each experiment.

2.Compare experimental data with theoretical predictions.

3.Discuss the significance of the results and the applications of

diffraction in real-world scenarios.
 Analysis and Conclusion
1.Compare and contrast the diffraction patterns observed in
each experiment.

2.Analyze the impact of slit width, aperture size, and grating

spacing on diffraction patterns.

3.Discuss the relationship between diffraction and wavelength of

light.

4.Explore real-world applications of light diffraction in various

fields.
 Presentation
1.Create a comprehensive presentation summarizing the key
findings, observations, and analyses.

2.Include visuals such as diagrams, charts, and photographs to

enhance understanding.

3.Consider demonstrating the diffraction patterns using simulation

software or interactive tools for a more engaging presentation.
 Reference

1. Cite relevant scientific literature, textbooks, and online resources that were
consulted during the research and preparation of the project.

Note: Ensure safety precautions when working with lasers, and

follow guidelines provided with optical equipment. The project
can be adapted for various educational levels, and additional
complexity can be added based on the audience's understanding
of physics and optics concepts.