Why does light diffraction create circular patterns?

In summary, light diffraction creates circular patterns due to the wave nature of light. When light passes through a narrow aperture or around an obstacle, it bends and spreads out, forming a series of concentric circles. This phenomenon is a result of Huygens' principle, where each point on a wavefront acts as a source of secondary wavelets, leading to constructive and destructive interference that produces the circular patterns observed. The size of the patterns depends on the wavelength of the light and the dimensions of the aperture or obstacle.
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abrahamabraham
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We see under trees circular light that goes from sun through the leaves gaps. Why does it create a circular shape and not other shapes? why does this diffraction phenomenon create it in circular patterns?
We see under trees circular light that goes from sun through the leaves gaps. Why does it create a circular shape and not other shapes? why does this diffraction phenomenon create it in circular patterns?
 
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  • #2
Can you upload a couple pictures of what you are seeing? Use the "Attach files" link below the Edit window to upload a PDF or JPEG image.

The diffraction pattern will depend on the size and shape of the aperture. See the Wikipedia article for a good introduction to diffraction:

1708104457111.png

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diffraction
 
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  • #3
In daylight conditions, sunlight passing through gaps in the leaf cover will not produce readily visible diffraction patterns.
But those gaps will act as pin-hole "lens"s. So in the shadow of the canape you will see projected images of the solar disk - which is circular.
 
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  • #4
.Scott said:
But those gaps will act as pin-hole "lens"s.
I can attest to this because during an eclipse the circles turn into crescents. You are seeing a projected image of the face of the sun. There is an eclipse here on 8 april ......I will report
 
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I was living in Virginia during the 1984 annular eclipse. Hence ring-shaped shadows. Although we had clear skies, atmospheric effects combined with the annular shape to create some really weird lighting effects.
 
  • #6
.Scott said:
In daylight conditions, sunlight passing through gaps in the leaf cover will not produce readily visible diffraction patterns.
But those gaps will act as pin-hole "lens"s. So in the shadow of the canape you will see projected images of the solar disk - which is circular.
Yes, this is exactly what I observe. Also, the size of the image varies with the distance from the aperture. Is there a formula for calculating the the size of the expected image for a given distance?
 

FAQ: Why does light diffraction create circular patterns?

1. What is light diffraction?

Light diffraction is the bending of light waves around obstacles and the spreading of light waves when they pass through narrow openings. This phenomenon occurs because light behaves as a wave, and when it encounters an edge or slit, it can change direction and create patterns.

2. Why do circular patterns form during diffraction?

Circular patterns form during diffraction due to the wave nature of light. When light passes through a circular aperture or around a circular object, it spreads out in all directions, creating a series of concentric circles known as interference patterns. These patterns arise from the constructive and destructive interference of light waves emanating from different points on the aperture or object.

3. What role does wavelength play in diffraction patterns?

The wavelength of light significantly influences the diffraction pattern. Longer wavelengths, such as red light, diffract more than shorter wavelengths, like blue light. This results in a greater spread of light and more pronounced circular patterns. The size of the aperture or obstacle relative to the wavelength also determines the extent and clarity of the diffraction pattern.

4. How does the size of the aperture affect the diffraction pattern?

The size of the aperture in relation to the wavelength of light is crucial in determining the characteristics of the diffraction pattern. When the aperture is comparable to or smaller than the wavelength, significant diffraction occurs, leading to larger and more distinct circular patterns. Conversely, if the aperture is much larger than the wavelength, the diffraction effects are minimized, and the patterns become less pronounced.

5. Can diffraction patterns be observed with other types of waves?

Yes, diffraction patterns can be observed with other types of waves, such as sound waves and water waves. The principles of diffraction apply to any wave phenomenon, not just light. For example, sound waves can create circular patterns when they pass through an opening or around an obstacle, similar to how light behaves during diffraction.

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