Light Diffraction by Ultrasonic Waves

Abstract

In this paper, diffraction of light by ultrasonic waves is examined. The equation for the wavelength of sound in water is derived and the Raman and Nath equations for the intensity distribution due to 1) pure progressive waves 2) pure standing waves and 3) waves of various standing wave ratios are presented. The paper is divided into three sections. The first part deals with the background and theory and is intended as an orientation for the reader. The second part of the paper discusses the apparatus used in performing the experiments and the final portion deals with the experimental procedure and the results of the work.