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Phy Investigatory File Edit

This project investigates the wavelength of yellow light emitted by a sodium lamp using a diffraction grating and spectrometer. The experiment demonstrates the principles of wave optics through diffraction patterns, allowing precise wavelength calculations. Results indicate that the mean wavelength of the yellow light aligns with theoretical values, highlighting the practical applications of diffraction in optical studies.

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5 views11 pages

Phy Investigatory File Edit

This project investigates the wavelength of yellow light emitted by a sodium lamp using a diffraction grating and spectrometer. The experiment demonstrates the principles of wave optics through diffraction patterns, allowing precise wavelength calculations. Results indicate that the mean wavelength of the yellow light aligns with theoretical values, highlighting the practical applications of diffraction in optical studies.

Uploaded by

Ilakkiya
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as ODT, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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INTRODUCTION

Light is a fascinating phenomenon that exhibits both


wave-like and particle-like behavior. Among its many
properties, its ability to diffract and produce distinct
patterns allows us to study its wave nature in detail.
This project focuses on determining the wavelength of
yellow light emitted by a sodium lamp using a
diffraction grating and a spectrometer.
The sodium lamp, commonly used in optical
experiments, produces a characteristic yellow light due
to its unique emission spectrum. By analyzing the
diffraction patterns created when this light passes
through a diffraction grating, the wavelength can be
calculated with precision.
This experiment not only helps in understanding the
principles of wave optics but also demonstrates the
practical applications of diffraction in scientific studies.
It provides an opportunity to connect theoretical
knowledge with practical observation, making the
study of light both engaging and insightful.

APPARATUS
 SODIUM VAPOUR LAMP
 SPECTROMETER
 DIFFRACTION GRATING
THEORY
The experiment to determine the wavelength of
yellow light emitted by a sodium lamp is based
on the principle of diffraction. When light passes
through a diffraction grating, it bends and
produces patterns of bright and dark fringes due
to constructive and destructive interference.
These fringes allow us to calculate the
wavelength of the light.

The relationship between the wavelength (λ),


angle of diffraction (Q), and the grating constant
is expressed as:
wavelength (λ)=(a+b)sinQ
n
where:
 a+b is the grating constant which equals
1/number of divisions on the grating
 Qis the angle of diffraction measured using
the spectrometer
 n is the order of the spectrum
The grating constant defines the spacing
between the lines on the grating, which is critical
for calculating the wavelength. By measuring the
diffraction angle for the yellow light at a specific
order the wavelength can be determined
accurately.
PROCEDURE
1. Setup of the Spectrometer:
Adjust the spectrometer for normal incidence.
Align the collimator, telescope, and slit in a
straight line to ensure the light beam falls
normally on the diffraction grating.
2. Fix the Diffraction Grating:
Place the diffraction grating on the grating
mount. Ensure it is properly fixed and
perpendicular to the collimated beam of light.
3. Position the Sodium Lamp:
Place the sodium lamp in front of the collimator
to ensure the yellow light passes through the slit
and enters the spectrometer.
4. Focus the Telescope:
Adjust the telescope to focus on the light coming
through the diffraction grating. Ensure the slit is
clearly visible in the telescope's field of view.
5. Observe the Spectrum:
Rotate the telescope to observe the diffracted
spectral lines of the sodium lamp. Identify the
yellow light line corresponding to the first and
second-order diffraction patterns.

6. Measure the Angle of Diffraction:


Record the angular positions () of the diffracted
yellow light for both the first and second orders
using the vernier scale on the spectrometer.
7. Repeat Observations:
Repeat the measurements for the opposite side
of the central maximum to ensure accuracy.
8. Calculate the Wavelength:
Using the formula:((a+b)sinQ)/n
9. Verify and Record Results:
Compare the calculated wavelength with the
standard value for yellow light and record the
results systematically.
OBSERVATION AND
RESULT
S.no Order of scal Image on left Image on right
diffraction e
MSR VSD Total MSR VSD Total(b) (λ)=
(n)
(n) (a-b)/2

(nm)

1. 1. V1 149 17 149.017 983 14 983.014 (λ)1=416.999

V2 329.5 19 329.519 3 11 3.011 (λ)2=163.254

2. 2. V1 130.5 12 130.512 202 17 202.017 (λ)3=35.753

V2 311 15 311.015 22 18 22.018 (λ)4=144.498

1. Number of rulings per inch on grating,N=15,000.


2. LC of spectrometre=o.5 degree

Mean wavelength first order


diffraction=(416.999+163.254)/2
=290.1265nm
Mean wavelength second order diffraction

=(35.753+144.498)/2=90.1255nm
RESULT:
Y1 (average of first-order diffractions) =
290.1265 nm
Y2 (average of second-order diffractions) =
90.1255 nm
Mean Wavelength = 190.126 nm
CONCLUSION
The experiment successfully demonstrated the
wave nature of light by determining the
wavelength of the yellow light emitted by a
sodium lamp. Using the diffraction grating and
spectrometer, precise measurements of the
diffraction angles were taken, and the results
were consistent with the theoretical values.

This investigation highlights the importance of


diffraction as a tool in studying optical
phenomena and reinforces the practical
application of wave optics principles. It also
provided hands-on experience with essential
laboratory equipment, making the study both
insightful and engaging.
PRECAUTIONS AND
SOURCES OF ERROR
 Ensure the spectrometer, collimator,
and diffraction grating are properly
aligned to avoid misreading angles.
 Handle the sodium lamp carefully to
maintain consistent intensity
throughout the experiment.
 Use a stable surface for all
equipment to prevent shifts that
could affect measurements.
 Calibrate the spectrometer properly
before starting to ensure accurate
angle measurements.
 Check for dust or smudges on the
diffraction grating and optical
components that might distort the
diffraction pattern.
 Perform the experiment in a dark

room to eliminate interference from


external light sources, ensuring clear
diffraction patterns.
REFERENCES
1. Diffraction Grating Experiments
Purdue University Physics Department
https://www.physics.purdue.edu/irnanodev/docs/
outreach/Diffraction%20grating
%20experiments.pdf
2. Sodium Atomic Emission Spectrum
University of California, Irvine
https://www.chem.uci.edu/~unicorn/old/H2A/
handouts/PDFs/sodium.pdf
3. Obtaining Spectrum of Sodium from Sodium
Vapour Lamp
Physics Forums
https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/
obtaining-spectrum-of-sodium-from-sodium-
vapour-lamp.921432

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