Diffraction [P] Flashcards
1
Q
Define the term “Diffraction”.
A
Waves spread out as they pass through a gap or go past an obstacle.
2
Q
When does diffraction work most effectively?
A
If the gap is approximately the same as the wavelength
3
Q
What happens if the gap is too large?
A
Most energy will go through but diffraction will be ineffective.
4
Q
What happens if the gap is narrow?
A
The waves will spread out evenly.
5
Q
How do bright regions occur using a diffraction gradient?
A
Waves are overlapping in phase
This causes constructive interference
Always brightest in the centre
Waves get amplified
6
Q
How do dark regions occur using a diffraction gradient?
A
Waves are overlapping out of phase
This causes destructive interference
Waves cancel out
