Diffraction - opening smaller than wavelength

In summary, the conversation is about identifying the combination that will produce the least degree of diffraction. The options are A) λ of 2.0m through an opening of 1.0 cm, B) λ of 30m through an opening of 2.0 m, C) λ of 2.0m through an opening of 25 m, and D) λ of 5.0nm through an opening of 45 m. The correct answer is D because the wavelength is much smaller than the opening, resulting in minimal diffraction. Option C would also have low diffraction. The person is unsure about options A and B, wondering if a larger wavelength would not be able to go through the opening or
  • #1
dragon-kazooie
16
0
Hi! I have this problem:

Homework Statement


Which combination will produce the least degree of diffraction?
A. λ of 2.0m through an opening of 1.0 cm
B. λ of 30m through an opening of 2.0 m
C. λ of 2.0m through an opening of 25 m
D. λ of 5.0nm through an opening of 45 m

The Attempt at a Solution



I know that the answer would be D because the wavelength is so much smaller than the opening that it would barely diffract, and that C would also be pretty low.

What I'm not sure of is what happens with A and B. If the wavelength is much greater than the opening, does that mean it will not be able to go through it, or does that mean it will go through and diffract a lot?


thanks for your time!
 
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  • #2
It goes through and diffracts a lot.
 
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Related to Diffraction - opening smaller than wavelength

What is diffraction?

Diffraction is the bending of waves around an obstacle or through an opening. It occurs when a wave encounters an object that is smaller than its wavelength.

How does diffraction occur when the opening is smaller than the wavelength?

When a wave encounters an opening that is smaller than its wavelength, the wave will spread out and bend around the edges of the opening. This results in a diffraction pattern, with areas of constructive and destructive interference.

What is the relationship between the size of the opening and the diffraction pattern?

The size of the opening is directly related to the size of the diffraction pattern. A smaller opening will result in a larger diffraction pattern, while a larger opening will produce a smaller diffraction pattern.

How does the wavelength of the wave affect diffraction?

The wavelength of the wave determines the size of the diffraction pattern. A longer wavelength will result in a larger diffraction pattern, while a shorter wavelength will produce a smaller diffraction pattern.

What are some real-life applications of diffraction?

Diffraction is utilized in many fields, including optics, acoustics, and radio waves. It is used in technologies such as microscopes, telescopes, and ultrasound imaging. It is also important in understanding the behavior of light and sound in everyday objects and environments.

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