Single-, double-, and triple-slit diffraction of molecular matter-waves

TL;DR

This paper explores the diffraction of molecules through various slits, demonstrating classical wave behavior and the influence of molecular properties, serving as an educational resource for understanding matter-wave phenomena.

Contribution

It provides an experimental and theoretical overview of molecular diffraction through multiple slits, highlighting effects of mass, internal complexity, and van der Waals interactions.

Findings

Experimental results agree with textbook predictions

Mass and internal structure affect diffraction patterns

Van der Waals interactions influence molecule-slit interactions

Abstract

Even 100 years after its introduction by Louis de Broglie, the wave-nature of matter is often regarded as a mind-boggling phenomenon. To give an intuitive introduction to this field, we here discuss the diffraction of massive molecules through a single, double, and triple slit, as well as a nanomechanical grating. While the experiments are in good agreement with undergraduate textbook predictions, we also observe pronounced differences resulting from the molecules' mass and internal complexity. The molecules' polarizability causes an attractive van der Waals interaction with the slit walls, which can be modified by rotating the nanomechanical mask with respect to the molecular beam. The text is meant to introduce students and teachers to the concepts of molecule diffraction, supported by problems and solutions that can be discussed in class.