Consider two diffraction gratings with the same slit separation, the only difference being that one grating has 3 slits and the other 4 slits. If both gratings are illuminated with a beam of the same monochromatic light
A) both gratings produce the same separation between orders, but the orders are better defined with the 4-slit grating.
B) the grating with 4 slits produces the greater separation between orders.
C) the grating with 3 slits produces the greater separation between orders.
D) both gratings produce the same separation between orders.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The separation between diffraction orders is determined by the slit separation, not the number of slits. However, more slits result in narrower, better-defined peaks due to increased constructive and destructive interference.

Consider Two Diffraction Gratings with the Same Slit Separation, the Only