einspaltig

Einspaltig is a German adjective meaning one-slit or single-column, depending on the context. It is formed from ein (one) and Spalt or Spalte (gap, slit, column) and is used to describe something that has only a single opening or division.

In optics, einspaltig refers to experiments or diffraction effects produced by light passing through a single narrow slit. The resulting intensity pattern on a screen shows a central bright fringe flanked by fainter fringes. The angular distribution is described by I(θ) ∝ (sin β / β)^2 with β = π a sin θ / λ, where a is the slit width and λ the wavelength. The central maximum has a width roughly 2 λ L / a on a screen at distance L. This single-slit diffraction contrasts with multi-slit interference, which produces more complex fringe structures.

In typography and page layout, einspaltig denotes a single-column format, i.e., text arranged in one vertical column. This is opposed to mehrspaltig, or multi-column layouts. Single-column layouts are common in books, certain newspapers, and online representations intended to optimize readability or fit specific design constraints. They influence line length, margins, and the overall aesthetics of the page.

In other technical contexts, einspaltig can describe a component or design with a single opening, channel, or path. The specific meaning is typically clarified by the field and accompanying terms, such as the number of gaps or columns involved.