Difference between revisions of "Diffraction"
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==Key Stage 5== | ==Key Stage 5== | ||
| + | [[File:DiffractionSpot.png|right|300px|thumb|The [[Diffraction Pattern|diffraction pattern]] produced on a screen when [[monochromatic]] [[Visible Light|light]] passes through a circular hole.]] | ||
===Meaning=== | ===Meaning=== | ||
[[Diffraction]] is the spreading of [[wave]]s when they pass through a gap or around an obstacle. | [[Diffraction]] is the spreading of [[wave]]s when they pass through a gap or around an obstacle. | ||
Latest revision as of 17:48, 23 May 2024
Key Stage 5
The diffraction pattern produced on a screen when monochromatic light passes through a circular hole.
Meaning
Diffraction is the spreading of waves when they pass through a gap or around an obstacle.
About Diffraction
- Diffraction occurs with all types of waves, including light, sound, and water waves.
- Diffraction is evidence for the wave-like behaviour of matter.
- The extent of diffraction depends on the wavelength of the wave and the size of the gap or obstacle.
- Diffraction is most noticeable when the gap size is comparable to the wavelength.
- Diffraction explains phenomena such as the bending of light around corners and the formation of diffraction patterns.
- Diffraction is used in various applications, including X-ray diffraction to determine crystal structures and electron diffraction to study the properties of materials.
Depictions of Diffraction
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| This image shows a plan view of diffraction of a wave through a single slit. To explore this yourself using physics simulations, visit the website 'phet' by clicking on the image. | This image shows a plan view of diffraction of a wave through a double slit. To explore this yourself using physics simulations, visit the website 'phet' by clicking on the image. |
Examples
- Diffraction patterns are observed when light passes through a single slit.
- Diffraction of sound waves allows us to hear around corners.