Characteristics of diffraction patterns produced with diffraction gratings can be determined Diffraction gratings have been incorporated in many instruments, including microscopes and spectrometers

Slits produce a diffraction pattern if their width and separation are similar to the wavelength of light passing through them Interference bands of a single-slit diffraction pattern can be predicted

diffraction — bending of a wave around the edges of an opening or an obstacle. resolution — degree to which two images can be distinguished from one another, which is limited by diffraction. diffraction grating — many of evenly spaced slits having dimensions such that they produce an interference pattern. laser — acronym for a device that produces light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation.