What does diffraction of sound refer to?

Diffraction of sound refers to the bending of sound waves as they encounter obstacles or openings. This phenomenon allows sound to spread out and propagate beyond its initial path, particularly in environments where the size of an obstacle or opening is comparable to the wavelength of the sound.

When sound waves pass around a barrier or through a narrow gap, they can change direction and continue to travel, allowing us to hear sounds even when we are not in a direct line with the source. This property is crucial in various real-world applications, such as acoustics in auditoriums and the way we perceive sound in complex environments like cities.

Understanding diffraction emphasizes the wave nature of sound and its interaction with the physical environment, which is essential knowledge for acoustics and sound engineering.