The diffraction of light by an assembly of opaque circular disks

Summary

The Fraunhofer diffraction pattern of an assembly of artificially prepared small opaque circular disks of identical size is investigated experimentally. It is found that as the distribution of the disks is altered the diffraction pattern undergoes a series of interesting changes. These changes are discussed with reference to the corresponding distributions. Striking optical analogies are presented to various well-known X-ray and electron diffraction effects. Twelve photographs of the diffraction patterns taken in monochromatic light and six in white light are reproduced alongside of the corresponding distributions.