Chapter 31, Problem 2A

a. Waves spread out when they pass through an opening. Does spreading become more or less pronounced for narrower openings?

b. What is this spreading called?

To determine

Whether the spreading becomes pronounced for narrower openings.

Answer to Problem 2A

The waves are more pronounced for narrower openings.

Explanation of Solution

The waves are more pronounced for narrower opening because, as the size of the openings is decreasing then the diffraction increases.

Conclusion:

Hence, waves are more pronounced for narrower opening

To determine

To Write: The phenomenon of spreading.

Answer to Problem 2A

This spreading is called diffraction.

Explanation of Solution

Diffraction is the process of waves spreading around obstacles. Therefore, waves are more pronounced for narrower opening because, as the size of the openings is decreasing then the diffraction increases.

Conclusion:

This spreading is known as diffraction.