Is Diffraction Caused by Reflection or Interference?

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Diffraction occurs when light waves spread out after encountering an obstacle or passing through an aperture, and it is primarily a result of interference. The angle of reflection is equal to the angle of incidence, as stated by the law of reflection, with both angles measured from a line perpendicular to the surface. When light passes through a prism, most of it travels along the straight edge, while some is refracted out, demonstrating the principles of reflection and diffraction. Understanding these concepts is crucial for comprehending how light behaves in various scenarios. Overall, diffraction is fundamentally linked to interference rather than reflection alone.
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1) Diffraction is a result of reflection or interference?
2) angle of reflection is _same __ as the incident angle?
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If the angle of reflection is the same as the critical angle then through a prism, most of the light will go along the straight edge and a little will be refraceted out with a little tir.
 
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DevilDoc said:
1) Diffraction is a result of reflection or interference?
2) angle of reflection is _same __ as the incident angle?
(1) Diffraction is the spreading out of light (or other waves) after encountering an obstacle or passing through an aperture. It can be understood as a consequence of interference.

(2) The law of reflection states that the angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection. Note that these angles are measured from a line normal (perpendicular) to the reflecting surface.
 
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