Imagine a grating with infinite number of slits, and the spacing D between slits is larger than the wavelength so that there are high order diffractions. In each of the diffraction directions the waves constructively interfere, but what decides the percentage of power that goes into each order? My thinking is that each slit is a Huygens source, radiating cylindrical waves homogeneously in every direction, but due to interference, only those with constructive interference can exist. I guess the energy going into each order should be equal, which is not the case. So I am confused on how the light will distribute its energy to different orders.

opositor5t

opositor5t

Open question

2022-08-18

Imagine a grating with infinite number of slits, and the spacing D between slits is larger than the wavelength so that there are high order diffractions. In each of the diffraction directions the waves constructively interfere, but what decides the percentage of power that goes into each order?
My thinking is that each slit is a Huygens source, radiating cylindrical waves homogeneously in every direction, but due to interference, only those with constructive interference can exist. I guess the energy going into each order should be equal, which is not the case. So I am confused on how the light will distribute its energy to different orders.

Answer & Explanation

Jamir Young

Jamir Young

Beginner2022-08-19Added 11 answers

There are two steps only you need to calculate the intensity distribution behind a multi slit. Firstly you have to calculate the intensity distribution pattern behind a single slit. Secondly you has to calculate the aberration of the pointlike source to all the slits and to the observers screen and by this sumerize the intensities at all interesting you points

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