Diffraction
Page 2 of 2 — articles on diffraction, sorted newest first.
What Is a Diffraction Grating? How It Works, Equation & Types
A diffraction grating is an optical component with a periodic structure that splits light into its constituent wavelengths. Think of it as a supercharged prism. Where a prism bends different colours by different amounts, a diffraction grating separates colours by constructive and destructive interference from thousands of closely spaced slits or grooves. The result is a clean, evenly spaced rainbow spectrum. Gratings are used in spectrometers to identify chemical elements, in CD players to read data, and in telescopes to study stars.
What Is Diffraction? Simple Definition, 7+ Examples & Diagram
Diffraction is the bending and spreading of waves around obstacles or through openings. It happens when a wave meets an object or aperture roughly the same size as its wavelength — the closer the match, the more the wave spreads. Sound diffracts around doorways (which is why you hear someone in the next room). Light diffracts through a narrow slit (which is why a laser beam spreads into a pattern of bright and dark bands). The effect is strongest when the obstacle or opening is about the same size as the wavelength. Here is what diffraction is, how it works, and 7 everyday examples.