What effect does diffraction have on waves when they encounter an obstacle?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the effect of diffraction on waves when they encounter an obstacle. Diffraction refers to the bending and spreading of waves around obstacles or through openings, which is key to understanding wave behavior in various contexts.
Answer
Diffraction makes waves bend around obstacles, spreading out and making the obstacle a secondary wave source.
When waves encounter an obstacle, diffraction causes the waves to bend around the obstacle and spread out, effectively turning the obstacle or aperture into a secondary source of the propagating wave.
Answer for screen readers
When waves encounter an obstacle, diffraction causes the waves to bend around the obstacle and spread out, effectively turning the obstacle or aperture into a secondary source of the propagating wave.
More Information
Diffraction is noticeable when the wavelength of the wave is comparable to the size of the obstacle or aperture. The phenomenon can lead to wave interference and spreading into regions where some might expect them to be blocked.
Tips
A common mistake is thinking diffraction only occurs with light waves. Diffraction occurs with any type of wave, including sound and water waves.
Sources
- Diffraction - Wikipedia - en.wikipedia.org
- Diffraction And Interference - University of Vermont - uvm.edu
- Reflection, Refraction, and Diffraction - The Physics Classroom - physicsclassroom.com
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