http://www.ck12.org Chapter 21. Physical Optics
FIGURE 21.10
A simple model of a spectroscope.A common (though unintentional) example of a reflection grating is a CD or DVD. If a CD is slowly moved as
light is reflected off its surface, (or if the CD is held stationary and one’s head is moved) light waves of different
wavelengths (colors) interfere constructively and destructively. Figure21.11 shows the spectrum observed as a
result of diffraction from a CD
FIGURE 21.11
A CD acts like a reflective diffraction grating.Notice that on the left side of the CD, mostly shorter wavelengths of light constructively interfere.
Interested in learning more about diffraction gratings? Follow the link below.
http://demonstrations.wolfram.com/DiffractionGratingIntensities/