AP Physics 2: Algebra-Based Flashcards: Diffraction
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 10 cards to help you master important concepts.
What is the name of the pattern created when a wave passes through a single opening?
This is known as a diffraction pattern.
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What is the name of the pattern created when a wave passes through a single opening?
This is known as a diffraction pattern.
What is diffraction?
Diffraction is the spreading of a wave around the edges of an obstacle or through an opening.
If a light wave passes through a doorway, will the diffraction be very noticeable?
No, diffraction will not be very noticeable because the size of the doorway is vastly larger than the wavelength of visible light.
AM radio waves have a longer wavelength than FM radio waves. Which is more likely to diffract around a large hill?
AM radio waves are more likely to diffract around the hill because their longer wavelength is more comparable to the size of the obstacle.
Does diffraction only occur with openings?
No, diffraction also describes the behavior of a wave spreading around the edges of an obstacle.
What is the relationship between wavelength, opening size, and the degree of wave spreading?
The degree of wave spreading (diffraction) increases as the size of the opening becomes closer to the wave's wavelength.
Define the key principle of diffraction.
Diffraction is the principle that waves spread out when they encounter an obstacle or an aperture that is comparable in size to their wavelength.
Under what condition is diffraction most pronounced?
Diffraction is most pronounced when the size of the opening is comparable to the wavelength of the wave.
A wave with a long wavelength and a wave with a short wavelength pass through identical openings. Which wave will diffract more?
The wave with the long wavelength will diffract more, as its wavelength is more likely to be comparable to the size of the opening.
Describe the behavior of a wave as it passes through a single opening.
The wave spreads out after passing through the opening, creating a characteristic diffraction pattern.