In free space, an electromagnetic wave of 3 GHz frequency strikes over the edge of an object of size $\frac{\lambda}{100}$, where $\lambda$ is the wavelength of the wave in free space. The phenomenon, which happens there will be:

JEE Main · 2022 · 26 Jun 2022 · Shift 1 · Wave Optics

In free space, an electromagnetic wave of 3 GHz frequency strikes over the edge of an object of size

\frac{λ}{100}

, where

λ

is the wavelength of the wave in free space. The phenomenon, which happens there will be:

(A)Reflection
(B)Refraction
(C)Diffraction
(D)Scattering✓ Correct

Answer: (D)

Solution

The phenomenon depends on the ratio of obstacle size to wavelength. Reflection occurs when the obstacle is much larger than

λ

. Diffraction occurs when the obstacle size is comparable to

λ

. When the obstacle size is much smaller than

λ

(here

a / λ = 1/100

), scattering dominates. Since the object size is only

λ /100

, scattering will occur.

JEE Main · 2022 · 26 Jun 2022 · Shift 1 · Single correct option

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