In a single-slit diffraction pattern, the central maximum is about twice as wide as the other maxima.This is because:
A)half the light is diffracted up and half is diffracted down
B)the central maximum has both electric and magnetic fields present
C)the small angle approximation applies only near the central maximum
D)the screen is flat instead of spherical
E)none of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The width of the central maximum in a single-slit diffraction pattern being about twice as wide as the other maxima is due to the way light interferes constructively and destructively as it passes through the slit and spreads out. This phenomenon is not accurately described by any of the provided options (A-D), making E the correct choice. The explanation involves the wave nature of light and the interference pattern created by the diffraction of light through a single slit, which is not specifically mentioned in any of the given choices.

In a Single-Slit Diffraction Pattern, the Central Maximum Is About