Question

In single slit diffraction experiment, yellow light is replaced by X-rays. How will the diffraction pattern be affected?

• A. No change in diffraction pattern.
• B. Width of diffraction bands increases.
• C. Width of diffraction bands decreases.
• D. Diffraction pattern will disappear.

Answer 1

The correct option is D Diffraction pattern will disappear.

We know, the essential condition for diffraction is that the dimension of slit, b and the wavelength of light rays should be comparable, i.e $b\approx \lambda$

Now, ${\lambda }_{\text{X-ray}}\left(1\dot{\text{A}}\right)<<<{\lambda }_{\text{yellow light}}(5750\dot{\text{A}}-5852\dot{\text{A}})$

Therefore, the condition for diffraction i.e $b\approx \lambda$ is no longer satisfied and hence the phenomenon of diffraction is no longer possible.

That's why the diffraction pattern disappears.

Hence, Option $\left(D\right)$ is correct.