Explain the phenomenon of diffraction of light ... - SS2 Physics Optics - Wave Optics Question

Diffraction of light waves is the bending or spreading out of light waves as they encounter an obstacle or pass through an aperture. It occurs when a wave encounters an obstruction or a narrow opening that is of comparable size to its wavelength. Diffraction is a result of the wavefronts of the light waves interacting with the edges of the obstacle or aperture. The amount of diffraction observed depends on the size of the obstacle or aperture relative to the wavelength of light. When the size of the obstacle or aperture is smaller than the wavelength of light, the diffraction is more pronounced.

Diffraction is distinct from other wave phenomena such as refraction and reflection. Refraction refers to the bending of light waves as they pass from one medium to another, while reflection is the bouncing back of light waves off a surface. Diffraction, on the other hand, involves the bending or spreading out of light waves due to obstacles or apertures. It is a result of the interaction between the wavefronts and the edges of the obstacle or aperture, leading to a characteristic pattern of interference and diffraction fringes.