Waves and Sound - SS2 Physics Past Questions and Answers - page 5

Diffraction is the bending and spreading out of waves as they encounter an obstacle or pass through a narrow opening. This phenomenon occurs when the size of the obstacle or opening is comparable to or smaller than the wavelength of the wave. Diffraction is commonly observed in our daily lives. For instance, when we hear sound waves coming from around a corner or when we observe the spreading of light waves around a doorway, it is due to the process of diffraction. Diffraction is also responsible for the phenomenon of rainbows, the interference patterns observed in double-slit experiments, and the spreading of radio waves around obstacles.

Reflection, refraction, and diffraction are all wave phenomena but exhibit different behaviours when waves encounter boundaries or obstacles. Reflection involves the bouncing back of waves when they encounter a surface, resulting in a change in direction. Refraction, on the other hand, refers to the bending of waves as they pass from one medium to another with different refractive indices. This bending occurs due to the change in wave velocity. Diffraction occurs when waves encounter an obstacle or pass through a narrow opening, resulting in bending and spreading out of the waves.

While reflection and refraction involve a change in direction, diffraction involves bending and spreading out. Reflection occurs when waves encounter a boundary, refraction occurs when waves pass through different media, and diffraction occurs when waves encounter an obstacle or opening. Each phenomenon has its significance and applications in various fields, including optics, acoustics, and telecommunications.

These essay questions allow for a more in-depth understanding of reflection, refraction, and diffraction. They provide an opportunity to discuss the concepts, applications, and significance of these phenomena in greater detail.