Why is diffraction most pronounced for objects on the order of the wavelength?

[lionelwang]

Hello!
Recently, I'm always thinking about why diffraction effects are generally most pronounced for the size of the diffracting objectsis that is on the order of the wavelength. How about a relatively bigger object?

I try to find it everywhere I can but failed. So anyone can help? Thanks!

 

[FoxCommander]

Hello!
Recently, I'm always thinking about why diffraction effects are generally most pronounced for the size of the diffracting objectsis that is on the order of the wavelength. How about a relatively bigger object?

I try to find it everywhere I can but failed. So anyone can help? Thanks!

Can you explain a bit more? what kind of objects are you talking about?

 

[lionelwang]

such as bending of waves around small obstacles and the spreading out of waves past small openings.
A famous example:single-slit diffraction. If the slit is pretty large, then I guess there is no abvious diffaction.

 

[jtbell]

You do get diffraction around the edges of large apertures, and the edges of objects.

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/HBASE/PHYOPT/bardif.html#c1

 

[Andy Resnick]

Hello!
Recently, I'm always thinking about why diffraction effects are generally most pronounced for the size of the diffracting objectsis that is on the order of the wavelength. How about a relatively bigger object?

I try to find it everywhere I can but failed. So anyone can help? Thanks!

The wave propagation of light is parameterized in terms of a specific length scale (the wavelength). That means the problem is in terms of ratios: wavelength/distance, for example. If wavelength/distance <<1, the appropriate diffraction term is small, while if wavelength/distance >>1, it's large. Note that 'distance' can be propagation distance, the size of a scattering object, or aperture diameter...

Does that help?

 

[lionelwang]

The wave propagation of light is parameterized in terms of a specific length scale (the wavelength). That means the problem is in terms of ratios: wavelength/distance, for example. If wavelength/distance <<1, the appropriate diffraction term is small, while if wavelength/distance >>1, it's large. Note that 'distance' can be propagation distance, the size of a scattering object, or aperture diameter...

Does that help?

I think you are right, thank you very much!