When you look at a single slit diffraction pattern produced on a screen by light of a single wavelength, you see a bright central maximum and a number of maxima on either side, their intensity decreasing with distance from the central maximum. If the wavelength of the light is increased,
A) the pattern shrinks in size. (central maximum less wide; other maxima in closer to it)
B) the pattern increases in size. (central maximum wider; other maxima farther from it)
C) it does not affect the size of the pattern.
D) the width of the central maximum increases, but the other maxima do not change in position or width.
E) the width of the central maximum decreases, but the other maxima do not change in position or width.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The size of the pattern increases as the wavelength of the light is increased. This is because the distance between the maxima is proportional to the wavelength, so as the wavelength increases, the distance between the maxima also increases, resulting in a larger pattern. The width of the central maximum will also increase as a result.

When You Look at a Single Slit Diffraction Pattern Produced