Unit: Waves
Year: 1988 Question#: 49
Question: Which wave phenomenon is represented by the diagram below?
(1 ) refraction
(2 ) diffraction
(3 ) reflection
(4 ) interference
What is this question really asking?
Explanation by: Melissa H.
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Answer 1
refraction
Incorrect
This is incorrect because the light rays are not entering a new medium, so they are not curving. The medium on both sides of the barrier are the same. return to top
Answer 2
diffraction
correct
This answer is correct because the wave has spread out behind the barrier once it has gone through the hole in the center which is the definition of diffraction. return to top
Answer 3
reflection
Incorrect
This answer is incorrect because nothing is being reflected off of a surface. return to top
Answer 4
Interference
Incorrect
This answer is incorrect because there is only one wave being shown. If the diagram was showing interference, then two waves occupying the same place at the same time would be shown in the diagram. return to top
What's this question really asking?
This question is asking if you know the difference between refraction, diffraction, reflection, and interference. It is also asking if you can recognize a diagram of the concept. return to top
