Monochromatic plane waves of light are incident normally on a single slit. Which one of the five figures below correctly shows the diffraction pattern observed on a distant screen?
A) I
B) II
C) III
D) IV
E) V

Question

Monochromatic plane waves of light are incident normally on a single slit. Which one of the five figures below correctly shows the diffraction pattern observed on a distant screen? 
A) I 
B) II 
C) III 
D) IV 
E) V

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The diffraction pattern for a single slit consists of a central bright fringe and several alternating dark and bright fringes on either side. The overall pattern has a bell-shaped intensity distribution, with the central maximum being the brightest and the intensity decreasing as the distance from the center increases. Choice B shows this pattern correctly, with the central maximum and several bright and dark fringes on either side. Choices A, C, D, and E do not accurately depict this pattern.

Monochromatic Plane Waves of Light Are Incident Normally on a Single