INDEX

 Acknowledgement
 Introduction
 Topic Background
 Personal Engagement
 Young’s Double Slit Experiment
 Diffraction
 Wave Interference
 Wave-optics formulation
 Interpretations –
• Copenhagen Interpretation
• Relational Interpretation
• Many Worlds Interpretation
• De Broglie-Bohm Theory
 Observer effect – quantum uncertainty
 Schrodinger’s thought experiment and superposition principle
 Performing the experiment
 Aim
 Apparatus
 Variables
• Dependent
• Independent
 Procedure
 Observations
 Result
 Precautions
 References
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I would like to express my gratitude to my teacher Mr. Rajesh sir, who

motivated and guided me in the successful execution of this project and
helped me hone my creative thinking skills.
I would also like to thank my principal, Mrs. Mallika Subramaniam, for
providing me with the opportunity to enhance my pool of knowledge. I am
indebted to my parents and friends who mentored and supported me
throughout the duration of the project.
INTRODUCTION
In modern physics, the double – slit experiment demonstrates that light
and matter can satisfy the seemingly incongruous classical definitions for
both waves and particles, which is considered evidence for the
fundamentally probabilistic nature of quantum mechanics. This type of
experiment was first performed by Thomas Young in 1801, as a
demonstration of the wave behaviour of visible light. At that time, it was
thought that light consisted of either waves or particles. With the
beginning of modern physics, about a hundred years later, it was realised
that light could in fact show both wave and particle characteristics. In
1927, Davisson and Germer and independently George Paget Thomsan
and Alexander Reid demonstrated that electrons show the same
behaviour, which was later extended to atoms and molecules. Thomas
Young’s experiment with light was part of classical physics long before the
development of quantum mechanics and the concept of wave-particle
duality. He believed it demonstrated the Christiaan Huygens’ wave theory
of light was correct, and his experiment is sometimes referred to as
Young’s experiment of Young’s slits.
TOPIC BACKGROUND
In the basic version of this experiment, a coherent light source, such as a laser
beam, illuminates a plate pierced by two parallel slits, and the lights passing
through the slits is observed on a screen behind the plate. The wave nature of light
causes the light waves passing through the two slits to interfere, producing right
and dark bands on the screen- a result that would not be expected if light
consisted of classical particles. However, the light is always found to be absorbed
add the screen add discrete points, as individual particles (not waves); the
interference pattern appears via the Very density of these particles hits on the
screen. Furthermore, versions of the experiment that include detectors at the
slits find that each detected photon passes through one slit (as would a classical
particle), and not through both slits (as would a wave). However, such experiments
the demonstrate that particles do not form the interference pattern if one
detects which slit they pass through. These results demonstrate the principle of
wave-particle duality.
Other atomic-scale entities, such as electrons, are found to exhibit the same
behaviour when fire towards a double slit. The experiment can be done with entities
much larger than electrons and photons, although it becomes more difficult as
size increases. the largest entities for which the double slit experiment has been
performed were molecules that each comprised 2000 atoms (whose total mass
was 25,000 atoms mass units).
The double-slit experiment has become a classic for its clarity in expressing the
centre puzzles of quantum mechanics. because it demonstrates the fundamental
limitations of the ability of the observer to predict experimental results, Richard
Feynman called it "a phenomenon which is impossible to explain in any classical way,
and which has in it the heart of quantum mechanics".
PERSONAL ENGAGEMENT
Our project aims to investigate the nature of light and it's behaviour by taking its
properties as a particle and as a wave into consideration through and experiment
performed by Thomas young - young's double slit experiment.
We selected young's double slit experiment as the focus of our physics project
due to its fascinating and profound implications in the field of quantum
mechanics. this experiment has been a cornerstone in understanding the wave-
particle duality of light and matter, a concept that has perplexed scientist for
centuries. the experiments simplicity, yet it's ability to unveil the complex
behaviour of particles, intrigued us. additionally, Young’s double slit experiment is
not only a fundamental demonstration of the wave particle duality but also a
crucial building block for numerous advanced concepts in modern physics, such as
Quantum interference and the nature of quantum probabilities. by delving into the
experiment, we aim to deepen my understanding of the fundamental particles
that govern the behaviour of particles on a quantum level, paving the way for a
more comprehensive grasp of the mysterious and captivating world of quantum
physics.
YOUNG'S DOUBLE SLIT
EXPERIMENT
1.DIFFRACTION
Diffraction is closely linked with young's double slit experiment, as both
phenomena are fundamental to our understanding of the wave- like nature of
particles, particularly in the context of quantum mechanics.

YOUNG'S DOUBLE SLIT EXPERIMENT

In 1801, Thomas young conducted a seminal experiment to investigate the
nature of light. he shone a beam of light through a barrier with two closely spaced
slits, allowing the light to pass through and strike a screen on the other side. the
resulting pattern on the screen was not just 2 bright lines corresponding to the
slits, but rather a series of alternating bright and dark bands known as an
interference pattern.
This interference pattern demonstrated that light exhibits wave like behaviour.
when two waves overlap, they can either reinforce (constructive interference) or
cancel each other out (destructive interference), leading to the observed pattern.

LINK WITH DIFFRACTION

Diffraction is a phenomenon that occurs when a wave Encounters and obstacle or
aperture. it refers to the bending or spreading of waves as they encounter an
obstruction. this bending of waves occurs because each point on a wave front can
be considered as a new point source of spherical waves. these secondary wave
fronts then overlap and interfere with each other.
In young's experiment, when light passes through the two slits, it undergoes
diffraction. each slit acts as a new source of waves, and these waves interfere
with each other on the other side of the barrier, creating the interference pattern.
In summary, diffraction and young's double-slit experiment are intimately
connected through the wave- like behaviour of particles. both phenomena
demonstrate that particles, including light and electrons, can exhibit interference
patterns, indicating their wave like nature. this duality is a fundamental aspect of
quantum mechanics and under lines many after counterintuitive phenomena
observed at the quantum level.

2.WAVE INTERFERENCE
WHAT IS WAVE INTERFERENCE?
We observe this phenomenon in our immediate surroundings like the blue colour
appearance of the sky and the radish orange colour during sunset. even the
beautiful spectrum formed by the rainbow that we admire. These phenomena are
witnessed Since light waves can undergo reflection, refraction, polarization, and
interference. Along with this light also undergo diffraction and the scattering
effect.

TWO TYPES OF INTERFERENCE

CONSTRUCTIVE INTERFERENCE
When two waves travel in the same direction and are in phase with each other,
their amplitude gets added, and the resultant wave is obtained. Here, the waves
are said to have undergone constructive interference. Upward displacement
happens when the waves undergo constructive interference; therefore, the
upward displacement of the medium is greater than the displacement of the two
interfering waves.
When a crest of one wave meets a crest of another wave of the same frequency,
then the resultant amplitude is the sum of the individual amplitudes of the waves.
We can also observe that the amplitude of the resultant wave is higher than the
wave before the interference. Constructive interference occurs when the phase
difference between the waves is an even multiple of π (180°).
The constructive interference can be observed in Young's double slit experiment
as well. The bright fringes that are formed are a result of constructive
interference where a coherent source of light is used.

DESTRUCTIVE INTERFERENCE
This kind of wave interference takes place in any location along with the medium
when the two waves that interfere with each other have a displacement in the
opposite direction. The destructive interference pattern of the waves is shown in
the figure above. When the crest of a wave meets the trough of another wave, the
waves are said to undergo destructive interference. This is clearly visible in
Young's double slit experiment where the dark fringes are formed between the
light fringes The sine wave with +1-unit maximum displacement meets a sine wave
with -1 unit maximum displacement; destructive interference occurs. The
resulting amplitude of the wave, which undergoes destructive interference, is
equal to the difference in the individual amplitudes of the waves. This type of
interference occurs when the difference is an odd multiple of π.
LINEAR SUPERPOSITION
The principle of linear superposition applies to any number of waves; it can be two
Or more than two waves. It states that when two or more waves of the same type
are incident on the same point from a coherent source, the resultant amplitude at
that point is equal to the vector sum of the amplitudes of the individual waves and
to simplify matters just consider what happens when two waves come together.
For example, sound reaching you simultaneously from two different sources, or
two pulses traveling towards each other along a string. When these waves come
together, the result is superimposed waves and they add together, with the
amplitude at any point being the addition of the amplitudes of the individual waves
at that point. Although these waves interfere with each other when they meet,
they continue traveling as if they had never encountered each other
Interference in Music: Musical instruments often rely on wave interference to
produce pleasing sounds and harmonies. Stringed instruments like guitars and
pianos use the interference of multiple strings to create rich and complex tones.
Interference in Optics: Interference is responsible for the phenomenon of colourful
patterns seen in soap bubbles, oil slicks, and thin-film interference. It plays a
crucial role in optical devices like interferometers used in research and industry.
Interference in Radio and Communications: In radio and wireless communications,
constructive interference is used to enhance signal strength, while destructive
interference helps reduce interference from other sources.

CONCLUSION:
Wave interference is a fundamental concept with widespread applications in our
everyday lives, from music and art to communication and technology.
Understanding the principles of constructive and destructive interference allows
us to harness this phenomenon for various purposes, shaping the world as we
know it. This project has provided a comprehensive overview of wave interference,
its types, causes, and real-world significance, highlighting its importance in the
field of physics and beyond.
3.WAVE-OPTICS FORMULATION
PATH DIFFERENCE,
∆𝑥𝑥 = 𝑑𝑑 sin 𝜃𝜃 = 𝑦𝑦𝑦𝑦/𝐷𝐷
a. ∆x: This represents the path difference, which is the difference in the distances
travelled by two waves from their sources to a particular point on a screen or
observation plane.
b. d: This represents the distance between the two slits or sources of the waves.
In the case of Young's double-slit experiment, it's the distance between the two
slits.
c. 𝜃𝜃: This represents the angle between the direction of the incident wave and the
direction to the point where you're observing the interference pattern. It's often
called the angle of diffraction.
d. y: This represents the vertical position of the point on the screen where you're
observing the interference pattern. It's the distance from the central maximum
(the center of the interference pattern) to the point of interest.
e. D: This represents the distance between the double slits (or sources) and the
observation screen. It's the distance from the slits to the screen.
𝒏𝒏𝒏𝒏𝒏𝒏
Maxima/ Bright fringes, 𝒚𝒚 = Here n = 1,2,3,...
𝒅𝒅

𝟏𝟏
(𝒏𝒏− )𝝀𝝀𝝀𝝀
Minima/ Dark fringes, 𝒚𝒚 = 𝟐𝟐
Here n= 0,1,2,3,...
𝒅𝒅
a. y: This represents the vertical position of the bright fringe or maximum in the
interference pattern. It's the distance from the central maximum (the center of
the pattern) to a specific bright fringe.
b. n: This is an integer representing the order of the bright fringe.
c𝜆𝜆: This represents the wavelength of the waves that are interfering. In the
context of light, this would be the wavelength of the light being used.
d. D: This represents the distance between the double slits (or sources) and the
observation screen. It's the distance from the slits to the screen.
e. d: This represents the distance between the two slits or sources of the waves.
In the case of Young's double-slit experiment, it's the distance between the two
slits.

INTENSITY: I ∝ 𝑨𝑨
INTENSITY ON SCREEN: I= A12 + A22 + 2A1A2𝒄𝒄𝒄𝒄𝒄𝒄∅

DERIVING INTENSITY ON SCREEN EQUATION:

Y1 = A1 sin 𝜔𝜔𝜔𝜔
Y2= A2 sin (𝜔𝜔𝜔𝜔 + ∅)

Y1 + Y2= A1 sin 𝜔𝜔t + A2 sin (𝜔𝜔t + ∅)

Y1 + Y2= A1sin 𝜔𝜔t + A2 (sin 𝜔𝜔t cos∅+ cos 𝜔𝜔t sin∅)
Y1 + Y2= A1 sin 𝜔𝜔t + A2 sin 𝜔𝜔t cos∅ + A2 cos 𝜔𝜔t sin ∅
Y1 + Y2= sin 𝜔𝜔t (A1 + A2 cos∅ ) + A2 cos 𝜔𝜔t sin∅

Let A1 + A2 cos∅ = Acos𝜃𝜃 -> Equation 1

And A2 sin∅ = A sin𝜃𝜃 -> Equation 2

Squaring the two equations and then adding them

(A1+ A2 cos∅)2 + (A2 sin ∅)2= (A cos 𝜃𝜃)2 + (A sin 𝜃𝜃)2
A12+ A22 cos2∅ + 2 A1 A2 cos∅ + A2 2sin2∅ = A2
A12+ A22 + 2A1 A2 cos∅ = A2
And I ∝ A2 => I = A12+ A22+ 2 A1 A2 cos∅
4. INTERPRETATIONS
• Copenhagen interpretation
• Relational interpretation
• Many worlds explanation
• De Broglie-Bohm theory

COPENHAGEN INTERPRETATION:
The Copenhagen interpretation is a fundamental concept in quantum mechanics
that addresses the nature of reality, observation, and measurement in the
quantum world. Proposed primarily by Niels Bohr and Werner Heisenberg in the
early 20th century, it remains one of the most widely accepted interpretations of
quantum mechanics.

INTRODUCTION
The Copenhagen interpretation centres around the concept of wave-function
collapse and the role of the observer in quantum systems. It asserts that
particles at the quantum level exist in a state of superposition, meaning they can
simultaneously occupy multiple states or positions until observed.

SUPERPOSITION AND WAVE-FUNCTION COLLAPSE

In the quantum realm, particles are described by wave functions, which represent
the probability amplitudes for finding the particle in a particular state or position.
A key feature of quantum mechanics is the principle of superposition, which allows
particles to exist in a linear combination of states. This means, for instance, that
an electron can be in a superposition of multiple orbits around an atomic nucleus.
The Copenhagen interpretation posits that it is only when a measurement or
observation is made that the wave function collapses, meaning the particle
'chooses' a particular state and the observer perceives it in that state. This
collapse of the wave function is probabilistic, determined by the probabilities
outlined in the wave function.

ROLE OF THE OBSERVER:

The Copenhagen interpretation introduces a philosophical and metaphysical
aspect to quantum mechanics, emphasizing the integral role of the observer.
According to this interpretation, the act of observation is what precipitates the
wave-function collapse. Prior to observation, a quantum system is in a state of
indeterminacy, with various possible outcomes.
This perspective has led to various philosophical debates about the nature of
reality and the observer's influence on it. Some proponents of the Copenhagen
interpretation argue that reality is inherently subjective at the quantum level, and
that the observer is an inseparable part of the measurement process.

CONCLUSION:
The Copenhagen interpretation of the Observer Effect is a cornerstone of
quantum mechanics, providing a framework for understanding the behaviour of
particles at the quantum level. Its emphasis on the role of the observer and the
probabilistic nature of quantum events has profound implications for our
understanding of reality. However, it is important to note that it is not without
its controversies and has spurred ongoing debates in the field of quantum
mechanics.

RELATIONAL INTERPRETATION:
INTRODUCTION
The observer effect is a fundamental phenomenon in quantum mechanics that
describes how the act of measurement or observation can influence the behaviour
of a quantum system. The traditional interpretation of the observer effect posits
that the act of measurement collapses the wave function, determining the
outcome of a quantum event. However, the relational interpretation offers a
different perspective, emphasizing the role of the observer's interaction with the
environment.

COPENHAGEN INTERPRETATION VS RELATIONAL

INTERPRETATION
COPENHAGEN INTERPRETATION
In the Copenhagen interpretation, the observer is considered external to the
quantum system.
Measurement collapses the wave function, resulting in a definite outcome.
This view implies an absolute reality that exists independent of observation.

RELATIONAL INTERPRETATION
The relational interpretation, proposed by Carlo Rovelli and others, posits that
the observer is an integral part of the quantum system.
It emphasizes the interaction between the observer and the environment.
The observer and the system are viewed as a dynamic, intertwined whole.

OBSERVER’S PERSPECTIVE & CONSISTENCY

The observer's perspective is paramount in defining the properties of a quantum
system.
The consistency of observations is crucial for determining the reality of a
property.

CONCLUSION
The relational interpretation of the observer effect offers a paradigm shift in our
understanding of quantum mechanics. By emphasizing the dynamic relationship
between the observer, the quantum system, and the environment, it challenges
the notion of an absolute, observer-independent reality. This perspective not only
sheds new light on foundational issues in quantum mechanics but also has broad
implications for fields ranging from quantum computing to our understanding of
the cosmos. Further research and experimentation are needed to explore the full
extent of the implications of relational interpretation.

MANY-WORLDS INTERPRETATION
As with Copenhagen, there are multiple variants of the many-worlds
interpretation. The unifying theme is that physical reality is identified with a wave
function, and this wave function always evolves unitarily, i.e., following the
Schrödinger equation with no collapses. Consequently, there are many parallel
universes, which only interact with each other only through interference. David
Deutsch argues that the way to understand the double-slit experiment is that in
each universe the particle travels through a specific slit, but its motion is
affected by the interference with particles in other universes. This creates the
observable fringes. David Wallace, another advocate of the many-worlds
interpretation, writes that in the familiar setup of the double-slit experiment the
two paths are not sufficiently separated for a description in terms of parallel
universes to make sense.

DE BROGLIE-BOHM THEORY
The De Broglie-Bohm interpretation, also known as pilot-wave theory, is an
alternative interpretation of quantum mechanics that provides a deterministic
explanation for the behaviour of quantum systems. This interpretation was
developed by Louis de Broglie and later extended by David Bohm in the early to
mid-20th century. One of the key aspects of this interpretation is its explanation
of the observer effect in quantum mechanics.

INTRODUCTION:
The observer effect is a fundamental phenomenon in quantum mechanics where
the act of measurement or observation of a quantum system car influence the
outcome of that measurement. In traditional quantum mechanics, this effect is
often explained by the collapse of the wave function, which represents the state
of a quantum system. However, the De Broglie-Bohm interpretation offers an
alternative explanation that does not rely on wave function collapse.

BASIC PRINCIPLES OF DE BROGLIE-BOHM

INTERPRETATION
The De Broglie-Bohm interpretation introduces two key elements:

a. Particle and Wave

In this interpretation, a quantum system is described by both a particle and a
guiding wave. The particle follows a deterministic trajectory, while the wave
evolves according to the Schrödinger equation. The guiding wave-influences the
motion of the particle but it does not collapse.

b. Quantum Potential
The guiding wave generates a quantum potential, which acts as an additional force
the particle. This potential depends on the amplitude of the wave and is
responsible for non-local interactions between particles. This means that
particles can instantaneously affect each other's behaviour, even at large
distances.

OBSERVER EFFECT IN DE BROGLIE-BOHM

INTERPRETATION
In the De Broglie-Bohm interpretation, the observer effect is explained as follows:

Interaction with Measurement Apparatus

When a measurement is performed on a quantum system, the particle interacts
with the measuring apparatus. The position of the particle is determined by the
interaction, and the measurement outcome is recorded.

No Collapse of the Wave Function

Importantly, the guiding wave does not collapse during the measurement process.
It continues to evolve according to the Schrödinger equation, influencing the
behaviour of the particle in future measurements.

CONCLUSION
The De Broglie-Bohm interpretation of quantum mechanics offers an intriguing
alternative to the standard Copenhagen interpretation. It provides a
deterministic explanation for the observer effect, suggesting that the behaviour
of quantum systems can be understood in terms of particle trajectories guided
by a wave. While it has its strengths, it also faces challenges and continues to be
a subject of ongoing debate and research in the field of quantum physics.

5. OBSERVER EFFECT- Quantum Uncertainty

The observer effect is a phenomenon in quantum mechanics where the act of
measurement or observation can influence the behaviour or state of a quantum
system. It highlights a fundamental distinction between the behaviour of particles
at the quantum level and our classical intuition based on everyday experiences.

KEY ASPECTS OF THE OBSERVER EFFECT INCLUDE:

Wave Function Collapse:
When a quantum system is not being observed, it is often described by a wave
function that represents a superposition of possible states. This means the
particle can exist in multiple states simultaneously. However, when a
measurement is made, the wave function "collapses" into one of the possible
states. Definite State:
After the measurement, the particle is observed in a definite state. For instance,
if we measure the position of an electron, we will find it at a specific location. This
outcome is random, and the probability of finding the particle in a particular state
is determined by the squared magnitude of the wave function (w2).

Effect on Interference Patterns:

The observer effect is particularly evident in experiments like the double-slit
experiment. If one tries to determine which slit a particle goes through, the
interference pattern (which indicates wave-like behaviour) disappears. This
suggests that the act of measurement disrupts the superposition of states.

Measurement Apparatus:
The observer effect is not limited to human observers. Any interaction or
measurement made by a physical apparatus, such as a detector or camera, can
lead to wave function collapse.

Philosophical Implications:
The observer effect raises philosophical questions about the nature of reality and
the role of the observer in quantum mechanics. It challenges our classical
intuitions and has led to various interpretations of quantum theory, such as the
Copenhagen interpretation, Many-Worlds interpretation, and others.

Quantum Uncertainty:
The observer effect is related to the Heisenberg uncertainty principle, which
states that certain pairs of physical properties (like position and momentum)
cannot be simultaneously measured with arbitrary precision. This principle is a
fundamental aspect of quantum mechanics.

Quantum Entanglement
The observer effect is also relevant in discussions about quantum entanglement.
When two particles are entangled, measuring the state of one instantaneously
determines the state of the other, regardless of the distance between them. This
phenomenon has been experimentally verified and is central to quantum
information theory. In summary, the observer effect is a fundamental feature of
quantum mechanics, highlighting the complex relationship between the act of
measurement and the behaviour of quantum systems. It underscores the unique
and sometimes counterintuitive nature of the quantum world.
The Relation of Observer's effect with YDSE:
So, how are these two concepts related? Well, the connection becomes apparent
when we consider how we detect particles in Young's Double Slit Experiment. When
we place a detector at one of the slits to see which slit the particle goes through,
the interference pattern on the screen disappears. This is because the act of
observing which slit the particle goes through disturbs the system and causes it
to behave more like particles and less like waves. The interference pattern only
appears when we don't observe which path the particles take, allowing them to
exhibit their wave-like behaviour.
In essence, the act of observation in the double-slit experiment influences the
outcome, just as the Observer's Effect suggests in the broader context of
quantum mechanics. This connection between Young's Double Slit Experiment and
the Observer's Effect highlights the fundamental role that measurement and
observation play in the strange behaviour of quantum particles, blurring the lines
between classical and quantum physics. It's a remarkable example of how the
observer's presence can alter the behaviour of quantum systems.

6. SCHRÖDINGER'S THOUGHT EXPERIMENT AND SUPERPOSITION

PRINCIPLE
Young's double-slit experiment and Schrödinger's cat thought experiment are two
iconic examples in the field of quantum mechanics that illustrate different
aspects of quantum phenomena, and they can be related in terms of the concept
of superposition.

Schrödinger's Cat:
In Schrödinger's thought experiment, a cat is placed in a sealed box with a
radioactive atom, a Geiger counter, a vial of poison, and a hammer. The setup is
designed so that whether the cat is alive, or dead depends on the quantum state
of the radioactive atom. Until someone opens the box to observe the cat,
according to quantum mechanics, the cat is considered to be in a superposition of
both alive and dead states simultaneously. This is a bizarre and hypothetical
scenario intended to illustrate the strange principles of quantum superposition.
Young's Double Slit Experiment:
Young's Double Slit Experiment is a classic experiment in which particles or waves
are sent through two slits and allowed to strike a screen on the other side. When
only one slit is open, you get a pattern on the screen consistent with particles or
waves passing through that single slit. However, when both slits are open, you see
an interference pattern, suggesting that the particles or waves are behaving as if
they're in a superposition of multiple states, creating interference.

The Connection:
The connection between Schrödinger's Cat and the Young's Double Slit
Experiment lies in the idea of superposition. In both cases, they highlight the
concept that quantum entities, whether particles or macroscopic objects like
cats, can exist in multiple states simultaneously until they are observed.
In Schrödinger's Cat, it's a macroscopic object (the cat) that is thought to be in a
superposition of life and death. In Young's Double Slit Experiment, it's particles of
waves that exhibit superposition by passing through both slits and creating an
interference pattern on the screen.
The common thread here is that these thought experiments challenge our
classical intuition and demonstrate the peculiar nature of quantum physics,
where systems can exist in a superposition of states until observed. They both
emphasize the importance of observation in determining the outcome, and they
illustrate the weirdness of the quantum world, where things can be in multiple
states at once until we make measurement.
PERFORMING THE
EXPERIMENT
Aim: Exploring Wave Nature of Light: Young's Double Slit Experiment
Experimental Setup:
Materials and Apparatus:
• Green laser pointer (532 nm wavelength)
• Dark room or controlled low-light environment
• A straight, thin strand of hair (or similar fine object)
• Wall or screen for projection

Experimental Setup Description:

Dark Room Setup:
Ensure that the room is dark or dimly lit to enhance the visibility of interference
patterns.

Laser Mounting:
Secure the green laser pointer on a stable surface, ensuring it is perpendicular to
the wall or screen where the interference pattern will be projected.

Hair Placement:
Take a single strand of hair and mount it across the laser beam's path. Ensure the
hair is taut and straight.

Projection Surface:
Position a screen or a white wall a suitable distance away from the hair. This will be
the surface where the interference pattern will be observed.

Adjustment:
Align the laser beam so that it passes through the hair strand without
obstruction. Fine-tune the angle and position until you achieve a clear, focused
laser beam on the projection surface.

Projection:
Turn on the green laser and observe the interference pattern on the projection
surface. The strand of hair serves as a makeshift double slit, diffracting the laser
light and creating a pattern of bright and dark fringes.

Observations:
The following patterns were observed while performing the experiment: -

Results: Key Findings

Formation of interference Pattern:
We have demonstrated the formation of an interference pattern on the screen.
The observed pattern consisted of alternating bright and dark fringes, indicative
of constructive and destructive interference.

Symmetry and Spatial Distribution:

The interference pattern exhibited radial symmetry, extending from the central
maximum. The regular spacing between fringes contributed to the overall
symmetry of the pattern, consistent with theoretical expectations.

Intensity Variation:
 The varying intensity of bright fringes and the consistent decrease in intensity of
dark fringes were observed. These intensity variations are characteristic of
interference and provided visual evidence of wave-like behaviour.

Stability of the Interference Pattern:

The interference pattern remained stable over time, confirming the robustness of
the experimental setup. External disturbances were minimized to ensure the
integrity of the observed pattern.

Confirmation of Colour Properties:

The greenish coloration of the interference pattern, consistent with the
wavelength of the green laser light, was visually confirmed. The colour properties
enhanced the visibility of the fringes.

Interference Pattern in Young's Double Slit Experiment and

Diffraction:
Differences:
CHARACTERISTICS BLADES FOR YOUNG’S DOUBLE
DIFFRACTION SLIT WITH HAIR

Mechanism Diffraction through narrow Diffraction through a single

slit or gaps strand of hair acting as a
makeshift double slit
Formation of pattern Central maximum with side Parallel bright and dark
maxima fringes

Pattern complexity More complex due to Simpler with a single slit

multiple slits

Intensity distribution Central maximum may be Relatively uniform intensity of

more intense bright fringes

Geometry influence Number and spacing of Width and spacing of hair

blades influence the strands influence the
pattern interference pattern
Experimental setup Requires a set of blades Requires a single strand of
with specific geometry hair, offering simplicity in
setup
Number of slits Multiple slits contribute to Utilizes a single strand of hair
the diffraction pattern as a makeshift double slit

Educational emphasis Demonstrates the Illustrates interference

influence of aperture principles with simplicity
geometry on diffraction

In summary, while both interference in Young's Double Slit Experiment and

diffraction involve the wave nature of light, the specific characteristics of the
observed patterns and the mechanisms leading to their formation differ based on
the experimental setup and conditions.

1. Observations:
Diffraction using a pair of Razor Blades

Young's Double Slit with a strand of hair

Conclusion:
The Young's Double Slit Experiment conducted with a Green Laser Light (532 nm),
a dark room, a wall as a screen, and a strand of hair as a makeshift double slit has
yielded compelling results for us that align with the fundamental principles of wave
optics. The experiment successfully demonstrated the interference phenomenon
and provided valuable insights into the wave nature of light.

Precautions:
1) Using only one single source or coloured light.
2) Using white light will give rainbow colour lights in diffraction and interference.
3) Wear eye protection and do not look directly at the laser beam.
4) The light should be monochromatic.
5) Avoid disrupting the setup to get the formation of the interference pattern.
6) Align the light properly.
7) Handle the razor blades carefully.

Sources of Error:
1) The source of light may not be monochromatic.
2) The slit width and separation between the slits are not correctly measured.
3) The room may not be dark to obtain optimal results.
4) Misalignment can lead to distorted or unclear interference patterns.
5) The model may not be handled carefully.
REFERENCES:
1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Double-slit experiment
2. SL Arora