diffraktioon

Diffraction is a phenomenon that occurs when waves encounter an obstacle or pass through an aperture. Instead of continuing in a straight line, the waves bend and spread out. This bending is most noticeable when the size of the obstacle or aperture is comparable to the wavelength of the wave.

Light waves, sound waves, and even water waves exhibit diffraction. For example, when light passes through a narrow slit, it doesn't just create a sharp shadow. Instead, a pattern of bright and dark fringes appears on a screen behind the slit, a direct result of diffraction. Similarly, if you stand behind a large object, you can still hear sounds coming from the other side because sound waves diffract around the edges.

The amount of diffraction depends on the wavelength of the wave and the size of the opening or obstacle. Longer wavelengths and smaller openings lead to more pronounced diffraction. This principle is utilized in various technologies, such as in the design of diffraction gratings used to separate different wavelengths of light and in the development of lenses and other optical instruments. The study of diffraction is fundamental to understanding wave behavior and has applications across many scientific disciplines.