Sensor-Based Diffraction System

How it Works

Scanning with the Linear Translator

In this unique scanning system, the diffraction pattern is scanned using a light sensor attached to a Rotary Motion Sensor. As the wheel on the Rotary Motion Sensor is rotated by hand, the Rotary Motion Sensor moves along a gear rack (called the Linear Translator). Students make the association between the diffraction pattern they see and the real-time graph of the light intensity versus position.

Easy Laser Alignment

The laser beam can be aimed through the slits using two thumb screws. Once the beam is aligned, either the laser or the slits can be removed from the optics bench and returned to the bench without re-aligning the beam.

Change slits in the dark without re-aligning everything

The slit wheels eliminate the frustration of trying to change the slits in a darkened room. Simply rotate to the next positive click to lock a different slit into position. The alignment of the disk only has to be done once; thereafter all the slits on that wheel will be in alignment.