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  • Diffraction Explained: Transverse & Longitudinal Waves
    No, diffraction can happen in both transverse and longitudinal waves.

    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.

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