Associations to the word «Diffraction»

Wiktionary

DIFFRACTION, noun. (quantum mechanics) 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 GRATING, noun. (physics) a surface having a large number of closely spaced lines or slits; used to produce optical spectra by mutual interference
DIFFRACTION PATTERN, noun. (physics) the pattern of lines or spots produced by diffraction; especially the two-dimensional pattern produced by X-ray diffraction that may be used to determine the structure of a crystal or of a crystalline compound
DIFFRACTION PATTERNS, noun. Plural of diffraction pattern

Dictionary definition

DIFFRACTION, noun. When light passes sharp edges or goes through narrow slits the rays are deflected and produce fringes of light and dark bands.

Wise words

Words are always getting conventionalized to some secondary meaning. It is one of the works of poetry to take the truants in custody and bring them back to their right senses.
William Butler Yeats