Physics Demo Number: 168

Approximate

Run Time: 3 min

Diffraction Pattern of a Sieve Transmitting Laser Light

Demo Description

Use a fine-meshed wire sieve to diffract laser light into an interference pattern.

Scientific Principles

Light confined to pass through small spaces results in interference effects.

A two dimensional interference screen results in a two dimensional interference pattern.

Equipment

• Fine-Meshed Wire Sieve

• 5 mW Demonstration Laser

Equipment Location

• Kit (168) on [C-2-3]

• Laser on [C-2-4]

Instructions

The first photo shows the sieve used for the two dimensional diffraction pattern. It resides in Kit (168) on the shelf below the 5mW demonstration laser.

The next photo gives a closer look at the sieve and its numbers.

The third photo shows the basic setup and the pattern on the storeroom door, which may be obtained by simply hand-holding both components.

The last photo shows a closer view of the pattern.

Writeup created by David A. Burba

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