Question

FIGURE shows the light intensity on a viewing screen behind a single slit of width $a$. The light’s wavelength is $\lambda$. Is $\lambda <a$,$\lambda =a$, $\lambda >a$, oris it not possible to tell? Explain.

Short answer

Behind a single slit, the light intensity on a viewing screen is$\lambda <a$

Step-by-step solution

Introduction

When it comes to waves like acoustic waves (sound) or electromagnetic waves like light or radio waves, intensity refers to the average power transfer across one period of the wave. Intensity can be used in a variety of situations where energy is delivered. For example, the intensity of the kinetic energy carried by drops of water from a garden sprinkler may be calculated.

Step 2:  Explanation

As $\sin \left(\theta \right)\le 1$, the first minima from the central maximum need $\mathrm{asin}(\theta {)}_1=\lambda$, which must be smaller than$1$.