Refraction, Diffraction, or Interference?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on identifying phenomena as examples of refraction, diffraction, or interference. The user is uncertain about categorizing a rainbow pattern on a compact disk, floating blotches in the eyes, a rainbow pattern on a beetle's back, and dark bands seen on a window screen. They suggest that the rainbow patterns may involve refraction or scattering, while the dark bands might relate to interference. The user seeks clarification on how to distinguish between these concepts in various scenarios. Understanding these optical phenomena is essential for accurately identifying them in different contexts.
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Homework Statement



Identify the following as an example of Refraction, Diffraction, or Interference

1) Rainbow pattern on a compact disk

2) The floating blotches in our eyes

3) Rainbow pattern on a beetle's back

4) The dark bands seen a a window screen


Homework Equations



none needed

The Attempt at a Solution



There's a lot more questions than this i had for homework, but these are the ones i couldn't quite identify.

1) i would guess refraction because i think the light is being redirected, but I'm second guessing myself and wondering if somehow the light is actually being scattered on the disk?

2) I honestly have no idea. I'm not even exactly sure what the teacher means by 'floating blotches'

3) same as number 1... i think its refraction, but I'm just not sure.

4) I'm not entirely sure what the teacher means by this either, but i think its interference?

please explain your answers. I know the difference between Refraction, Diffraction, and Interference, but I'm not entirely sure how you know which is which per different scenario. many thanks!
 
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