OUTCOME
By the end of this lesson you will be able to explain the diffraction of light and recognise the diffraction patterns of a single slit
Just as with mechanical waves, diffraction of light is effected by the slit/object size to wavelength ratio λ/w
LEARNING TASKS
Explain
1. Newton argued that light did not diffract because object created sharp shadows. Can you explain this observation and yet still accept the wave model of light?
Explore and Elaborate
Prac: Single slit diffraction
Use the diffraction kits to observe diffraction through a single slit. Draw the patter you see in your log book. How does the pattern change as the slit size increases?
Evaluate
Ex 10.5
PDQs 1.13