Why does the size of an obstacle have to be comparable to the wavelength of radiation for diffraction effects to be noticable ?
Diffraction is a phenomenon that occurs when waves, such as light or sound, encounter an obstacle or slit and bend around it, causing interference patterns. It is a characteristic property of all waves, including electromagnetic and mechanical waves.
Diffraction and refraction are both phenomena that involve the bending of waves, but they are caused by different mechanisms. Diffraction occurs when waves encounter an obstacle or slit, while refraction occurs when waves pass through a medium with varying densities.
The amount of diffraction that occurs depends on the wavelength of the wave, with longer wavelengths experiencing more diffraction than shorter ones. This is because longer wavelengths have a harder time diffracting around obstacles and slits.
Yes, diffraction can be observed in many everyday situations. For example, the colors seen on a CD or DVD are a result of diffraction of light. The patterns seen when looking through a screen or mesh are also a result of diffraction.
Diffraction is used in many areas of science and technology. In optics, it is used to produce diffraction gratings and holograms. In acoustics, it is used to create directional sound beams. It is also used in X-ray crystallography to study the structure of crystals.