Question

10 what is the main difference between refraction and diffraction? a refraction is a phenomenon that affects light; diffraction is a phenomenon that affects sound. b refraction involves the bending of light; diffraction involves the bending and spreading of light. c refraction usually happens in the atmosphere; diffraction usually happens closer to the earths surface. d refraction involves changes to the density of light; diffraction involves changes to the speed of light.

Explanation:

• Option A: Both refraction and diffraction can affect light and sound, so this is incorrect.
• Option B: Refraction is the bending of light (or other waves) when passing through different media. Diffraction is the bending and spreading of waves (including light) when encountering an obstacle or opening, so this correctly describes the main difference.
• Option C: The location of occurrence is not the main difference between refraction and diffraction, so this is incorrect.
• Option D: Refraction involves a change in the speed (and direction) of light due to medium change, and diffraction does not involve changing the speed of light in the same way; this description is incorrect.

Answer:

B. Refraction involves the bending of light; diffraction involves the bending and spreading of light.