Wave Diffraction

Mr. Anderson explains wave diffraction, the bending of waves around obstacles or through openings. He illustrates this with water waves, sound, and light, emphasizing the importance of the obstacle or opening size relative to the wavelength. Real-world examples and demonstrations using a ripple tank and PhET simulation are provided to show how diffraction occurs in different scenarios.

What is the primary condition for achieving true wave diffraction?

• The wave must be traveling at high speed.

• The wave must be of low frequency.

• The obstacle or opening must be comparable to the wavelength.

• The obstacle must be much larger than the wavelength.

Why can you hear someone speaking in another room but not see them?

• Sound waves can diffract through openings like doors.

• Light waves travel faster than sound waves.

• Light waves are absorbed by walls.

• Sound waves are smaller than light waves.

What tool is used to visualize wave diffraction in a controlled environment?

• A diffraction grating

• A light prism

• A ripple tank

• A sound meter

In a PhET simulation, what happens as the size of the opening is decreased to match the wavelength?

• The waves stop moving.

• True diffraction occurs.

• Diffraction remains unchanged.

• Diffraction decreases.

What is a real-world example of wave diffraction mentioned in the video?

• Sound waves bending around a corner

• Light passing through a prism

• Radio waves traveling through space

• Ocean waves passing through a gap