Order counts how many wavelengths fit the same path. Exact arithmetic here means exact results for the stated model inputs; measured inputs still carry uncertainty and significant-figure limits.

highlighted = computed this step

Second order uses two wavelengths in the path ledger

Order 2 with wavelength 4 meters gives path 8 meters.

nλ=24=8 mn\lambda=2\cdot 4=8\ \mathrm{m}
Second-order fitThe order is an integer count.d=4 mlambda=4 mn=2n*lambda=8 m2d=8 maccepted=1

Two plane spacings give the same path difference

Twice the 4 meter plane spacing is also 8 meters.

2d=24=8 m,accepted=12d=2\cdot 4=8\ \mathrm{m},\quad accepted=1
Second-order equalityThe same validator checks first and second order.d=4 mlambda=4 mn=2n*lambda=8 m2d=8 maccepted=1