(diffraction) when light passes sharp edges or goes through narrow slits the rays are deflected and produce fringes of light and dark bands
Diffraction refers to various phenomena which occur when a wave encounters an obstacle. It is described as the apparent bending of waves around small obstacles and the spreading out of waves past small openings. ...
(diffraction) The breaking up of an electromagnetic wave as it passes a geometric structure (e.g. a slit), followed by reconstruction of the wave by interference
(Diffraction) The breaking up of bean of a white :light causing spectral colors.
(Diffraction) The spreading of light. Occurs when light passes through discontinuities (i.e. steps or edges). In an optical system, light can be diffracted to form multiple focal points or images.
(Diffraction) A change in the direction of a wave front that is caused by the wave moving past an obstacle.
(diffraction) The tendency of waves to bend around corners. The diffraction of light establishes its nature as a wave.
(Diffraction) The bending of sound waves when they run into obstacles in their path.