Diffraction of Sound vs. Light – Rankers Physics

Diffraction: Practice Problem & Solution

Assertion (A): Diffraction is common in sound but not common in light waves. Reason (R): Wavelength of light wave is more than the wavelength of sound.  
Both (A) & (R) are true and the (R) is the correct explanation of the (A)
Both (A) & (R) are true but the (R) is not the correct explanation of the (A)
(A) is true but (R) is false
Both (A) and (R) are false

Short Solution (Best for NEET):

To solve this problem, we apply the core principles of Diffraction. Understanding the underlying formula is key to arriving at the correct answer below:

Diffraction is pronounced when the wavelength is comparable to the obstacle size. Sound waves have large wavelengths (\( \text{meters}\)), making their diffraction common around everyday objects. Light waves have very small wavelengths (\( \text{nanometers}\)), so their diffraction is less observed. Thus, A is true. The wavelength of light is significantly smaller than the wavelength of sound. Thus, R is false.

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Similar Practice Questions

Explore conceptually related problems to test your knowledge.

1. For a parallel beam of monochromatic light of wavelength '$\lambda$', diffraction is produced by a single slit whose width 'a' is of the order of the wavelength of the light. If 'D' is the distance of the screen from the slit, the width of the central maxima will be: (2015)
2. In the far field diffraction pattern of a single slit under polychromatic illumination, the first minima with the wavelength λ1 is found to be coincident with the third maximum at λ2. So :
3. A screen is placed \(50\text{ cm}\) from a single slit, which is illuminated with \(6000\text{ A^0}\) light. If distance between the first and third minima in the diffraction pattern is \(3\text{ mm}\), the width of the slit is
4. Assertion (A): In YDSE central maxima means the maxima formed with zero optical path difference. It may be formed anywhere on the screen. Reason (R): In an interference pattern, whatever energy disappears at the minimum, appears at the maximum.  
5. Assertion (A): In standard YDSE experiment if upper slit is slightly moved downward then central maxima shifts downward. Reason (R): Fringe width in such case will increase.