Diffraction (Cambridge (CIE) A Level Physics): Flashcards
Exam code: 9702
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Define diffraction.
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Cards in this collection (7)
Define diffraction.
Diffraction is the spreading out of waves as they pass through a gap (aperture) or around the edge of an obstacle.
Diffraction is most pronounced when the width of the gap and the .......... of the wave are similar in size.
Diffraction is most pronounced when the width of the gap and the wavelength of the wave are similar in size.
What is the only property of a wave that changes when it is diffracted, and why?
Its amplitude decreases, because some energy is dissipated as the wave passes through the gap. The wavelength (and frequency) stay constant.
Besides passing through a narrow gap, in what other situation can diffraction occur?
Waves can also diffract by curving around the edge of a barrier or obstacle.
Compare the diffraction of a wave through a gap that is much bigger than its wavelength with one much smaller than its wavelength.
Gap much bigger than the wavelength: little diffraction, the wave passes through largely undeviated
Gap much smaller than the wavelength: the wave spreads out significantly after passing through
True or False?
Only water waves and sound waves can be diffracted; light waves cannot.
False.
Any type of wave can be diffracted, including light.
Name a piece of apparatus used to demonstrate diffraction of water waves, and describe how the amount of diffraction can be varied in this experiment.
A ripple tank. The amount of diffraction can be varied by changing the size of the gap relative to the wavelength of the waves.
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