noun

diffraction

dih-FRAK-shun/dɪˈfrækʃn/

The bending and spreading of waves around obstacles or through openings.

Diffraction causes waves to spread out after passing through narrow openings.

$An overhead view of a shallow ripple tank: parallel water-wave crests approach a narrow opening in a straight barrier and spread into semicircular crests beyond it, making diffraction directly visible.$

Etymology

difLatinapart

+fractLatinto break

+ionLatinaction or process

The image of 'breaking apart' was applied to the spreading of light or deflection of its rays. It names the wave behavior seen as waves bend around obstacles or spread through openings.

In context

nptelhrd27:39

the diffraction creates an angular diverging pattern

Non-intrusive spray measurements techniques.

More examples

Sound diffraction helps us hear someone speaking around a corner.
Water waves show diffraction as they pass through a gap in a barrier.
A laser shining through a narrow slit produces a diffraction pattern.

Forms

diffraction

diffract verb — To spread around obstacles or through openings.

diffractive adjective — Involving the bending and spreading of waves.

Similar words

spreading: Broader term; does not specify waves, obstacles, or openings.