Question

when light passes through a small opening in a barrier, it bends to spread out on the other side of the opening. how does this phenomenon support the wave model of light? a. it is the result of the barrier acting as a blackbody radiator. b. it is the result of constructive interference. c. it is the result of diffraction. d. it is the result of destructive interference.

Explanation:

• Option A: A black - body radiator emits electromagnetic radiation based on its temperature. This has no relation to light bending through a small opening.
• Option B: Constructive interference occurs when two or more waves combine to form a wave with a larger amplitude. It is not the cause of light bending through a small opening.
• Option C: Diffraction is the bending and spreading of waves (including light waves) as they pass through an opening or around an obstacle. This matches the description in the question.
• Option D: Destructive interference occurs when two or more waves combine to form a wave with a smaller amplitude. It is not relevant to the light - bending phenomenon described.

Answer:

C. It is the result of diffraction.