Diffraction and Interference of Microwaves

Principle

If a double-slit is positioned in the divergent microwave beam, a characteristic intensity profile results behind this double-slit. The periodicity of the intensity profile can be used to determine the wavelength of the microwaves that are used.

Benefits

• Convenient all-in-one set includes control unit, transmitter and receiver as horn antennae, microwave probe, microwave benches, grating, slit plates, prism, and reflection/absorption plates
• With the same set, all aspects of microwave physics can be studied quantitatively: polariziation, reflection, transmission, refraction, propagation, diffraction, interference, inverse square law, standing waves, conservation of energy in reflection and transmission
• Very detailed experiment guides for all experiments

Tasks

First the phenomenon of diffraction through a single-slit and on a small obstacle is investigated. Then the intensity profile that results from a diffraction through a double-slit is measured and the wavelength of the electromagnetic wave that is used, based on this intensity profile, is determined.

Learning objectives

• Microwaves
• Electromagnetic waves
• Huygens principle
• Double-slit
• Interference