Here's why:
* Diffraction is the bending of waves around obstacles or through openings. This bending is caused by the wave's tendency to spread out as it travels.
* Transverse waves have oscillations perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation (like light waves).
* Longitudinal waves have oscillations parallel to the direction of wave propagation (like sound waves).
Examples of Diffraction:
* Light waves (transverse): You see diffraction when light passes through a narrow slit or around a sharp edge, creating interference patterns.
* Sound waves (longitudinal): You can hear sound waves diffracting around corners, which is why you can still hear someone talking even if they're hidden behind a wall.
Key Point: Diffraction is a fundamental wave phenomenon that is not limited to a specific type of wave. It occurs because waves have the ability to spread out and interact with obstacles or openings in their path.