How does the diffraction of light waves differ ... - SS1 Physics Wave Optics Question

Diffraction and interference are both phenomena associated with the behaviour of light waves. Diffraction occurs when light waves encounter an opening or an obstacle and spread out, resulting in a bending or bending around the edges. Interference, on the other hand, occurs when two or more light waves superpose and combine, leading to reinforcement or cancellation of the waves. While diffraction involves the bending of light waves, interference involves the interaction of multiple light waves. However, there is a close relationship between diffraction and interference because diffraction is necessary for interference to occur. Diffraction allows light waves to interfere with each other, leading to the formation of interference patterns. In essence, both diffraction and interference demonstrate the wave nature of light and the phenomena resulting from the superposition of light waves.