Diffraction

This interactive simulator explores Diffraction in Optics & Light. Single and double slit with interference patterns. Use the controls to change the scenario; watch the visualization and any graphs or readouts to connect the model with lectures, labs, and homework.

Who it's for: For learners comfortable with heavier math or second-level detail. Typical context: Optics & Light.

Key terms

  • diffraction
  • optics
  • light

How it works

Far-field (Fraunhofer) diffraction: each slit contributes a sinc² envelope in angle. Two slits add Young interference cos²(πd sinθ/λ) inside that envelope. Colors in the plot follow the selected wavelength for emphasis; the curve is the relative intensity profile.

Key equations

Single slit: I ∝ sinc²(πa sin θ / λ)
Double slit: I ∝ cos²(πd sin θ / λ) · sinc²(πa sin θ / λ)