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  1. Diffraction - Wikipedia

    Diffraction is the deviation of waves from straight-line propagation without any change in their energy due to an obstacle or through an aperture. The diffracting object or aperture effectively becomes a …

  2. Diffraction | Definition, Examples, Types, & Facts | Britannica

    Diffraction, the spreading of waves around obstacles. Diffraction takes place with sound; with electromagnetic radiation, such as light, X-rays, and gamma rays; and with very small moving …

  3. 7.4: Diffraction - Physics LibreTexts

    This page explains the phenomenon of diffraction, where waves can bend and change direction without affecting their speed. It illustrates how sound waves can travel through openings, enabling people …

  4. What Is Diffraction? The Physics of Spreading Waves

    May 27, 2025 · Diffraction is the phenomenon where waves bend, spread, or interfere when they encounter an obstacle or pass through a narrow opening. The effect is subtle yet profound.

  5. What is diffraction in physics? - California Learning ...

    Jul 2, 2025 · Fraunhofer diffraction is commonly observed in applications involving lenses and telescopes, where focusing elements effectively bring the observation point to infinity. The diffraction …

  6. 17.1 Understanding Diffraction and Interference - OpenStax

    The bending of a wave around the edges of an opening or an obstacle is called diffraction. Diffraction is a wave characteristic that occurs for all types of waves. If diffraction is observed for a phenomenon, it …

  7. Diffraction - Math is Fun

    Diffraction is when waves bend around the corner of an obstacle. ... It is most easily seen when a wave spreads out after passing through a gap.