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A LITTLE SOMETHING WORTH KNOWING

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ScienceOne small ahaPhysics concept

Waves spread around obstacles and through gaps in this process, especially when the gap is comparable to their wavelength.

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Your new ahaDiffraction

Diffraction is the spreading of waves around edges or through openings. Source: Diffraction ↗

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More from Physics in Plain Sight

A few more worth knowing.

  1. 16These mechanical waves carry audible vibrations through a medium such as air or water.IDENTIFY
    Sound Waves

    Sound travels as vibrations through a medium and moves faster through water than through air.

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  2. 17Most materials become slightly larger when heated through this process.RECALL
    Thermal Expansion

    Thermal expansion makes most materials grow slightly as they heat, loosening a stuck lid under hot water.

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  3. 18Circulating fluid carries heat in this process, as warm air rises above a radiator.RECALL
    Convection

    Convection carries heat through circulating fluid or gas, sending warm air rising above a radiator.

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