What is the difference between diffraction and refraction? Tuesday, April 23 Reminders: Test Chapters 25-31 is Thursday. Portfolios are due Thursday. Don't forget to turn in the lab from yesterday. Today's Warm-Up Question: What is the difference between diffraction and refraction? See Chapter 31, page 483.

Diffraction facts Diffraction is the bending of any type of wave by means other than reflection or refraction. This applies to any type of wave, mechanical or electromagnetic. This is one of the many properties that reinforces the fact that light is a form of wave. Interference is one of the most common examples of diffraction.

Examples of diffraction

Examples of wave diffraction in nature. These properties apply to all types of waves.

You can observe diffraction within your own eyes. If you squint your eyes enough, you can create a diffraction of the light entering your eyes and it will appear as though the light entering your eyes spreads out, blurs, and forms spikes or visible lines that shouldn't be there.

We will now do some test review. Mr. Kipp will pass back some graded papers. Keep them handy, as we will review them for the test. Concepts we will review: reflection, refraction, lenses. You will have time to organize them into your portfolio at the end of class.

Assigned on Monday, 4/15/13 2 points possible

Assigned on Thursday, 4-18-13 2 points possible

Diverging vs. Converging Lessons

Today's Assignment: Chapter 31 - Diffraction and Interference Questions (worksheet) Tomorrow, you will have time to finalize any recent assignments, organize portfolio, and do any other preparations for Thursday's test over Sound & Light (Chapters 25-31).