Types of Diffraction
We can categorise diffraction into two categories that are,
- Fraunhofer Diffraction
- Fresnel Diffraction
Fraunhofer Diffraction
- When all the light rays passing through the narrow slit are parallel to each other then the diffraction which occurs is called Fraunhofer Diffraction.
- This diffraction is achieved by placing the light source far away from the narrow slit.
- The screen and the source are at an infinite distance from each other in this type of diffraction. Fraunhofer Diffraction uses a convex lens to produce a diffracting pattern.
Fresnel Diffraction
- If the light source and screen at which the diffraction pattern is obtained are at finite distances then the diffraction is called Fresnel Diffraction.
- In Fresnel Diffraction, the shapes obtained from the incident wavefronts are spherical. In this type of diffraction, a convex lens is not required.
Diffraction of light
Diffraction is a phenomenon shown by light. When the wave of light interacts with the particle in the atmosphere it bends at the corners and scatters in the area to illuminate the whole area, this phenomenon is called the Diffraction of light. It is a property of light which is used to explain various phenomena observed in our daily life.
Let’s learn about diffraction in detail in this article.
Table of Content
- What is Diffraction?
- Diffraction Examples
- Types of Diffraction
- Single Slit Diffraction
- Single Slit Diffraction Formula
- Central Maximum
- Resolving Power
- Rayleigh’s Criterion
- What Is the Difference Between Diffraction and Scattering?
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