Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · The diffraction grating

The diffraction grating — practice question

(a(i))[1]

For a progressive water wave, state the meaning of displacement.

(a(ii))[1]

For a progressive water wave, state the meaning of amplitude.

(b)[2]

Two coherent waves X and Y arrive at the same point and superpose. The phase difference between the waves at the point is $180^\circ$. Wave X has an amplitude of $1.2\,\text{cm}$ and intensity $I$. Wave Y has an amplitude of $3.6\,\text{cm}$. Calculate, in terms of $I$, the resultant intensity at the point where they meet.

(c(i))[2]

Monochromatic light falls on a diffraction grating. Describe the diffraction of the light waves as they pass through the grating.

(c(ii))[3]

A parallel beam of light contains two wavelengths $540\,\text{nm}$ and $630\,\text{nm}$. The light is incident normally on a diffraction grating. Third-order diffraction maxima are obtained for both wavelengths. No higher orders are obtained for either wavelength. Determine the smallest possible line spacing $d$ of the diffraction grating.

(c(iii))[2]

In (c)(ii), the beam of light is replaced by a beam of blue light incident on the same diffraction grating. State and explain whether a third-order diffraction maximum is produced for this blue light.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 11-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Displacement is the distance from the equilibrium position in a specified direction

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