Diffraction Between Wax Blocks

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In this optics activity, learners explore diffraction by adding wax blocks to a ripple tank. The wedge-shaped blocks act as obstacles that the wave must bend around. Learners will observe this phenomenon as well as the semicircular waves that emerge from the narrow opening between the blocks. Learners experiment by changing the size of the opening and seeing what effect it has on the emerging waves. This activity is recommended as a follow-up to "The Ripple Tank" activity and can be supplemented by the "Interference in a Ripple Tank" activity (see related resources).

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Learning Time:
5 to 10 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$1 - $5 per student
Age Range:
Ages 14 - adult
Resource Type:
Activity
Language:
English

Materials List (per student)

Keywords

Subjects

  • Life Sciences
    • Human Senses and Perception
      • Vision
  • Physical Sciences
    • Vibration and Waves
      • Wave Properties
      • Wave Motion
      • Diffraction and Interference
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Components that are part of this resource:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

  • Cobb, Vicki ; Cobb, Josh

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, Optical Society of America, 2008