Lesson Plan

Diffraction Demystified

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet

Study diffraction patterns using CDs and DVDs! Scholars measure the diffraction patterns of a light wave as it hits a CD or DVD. Using the information, they can measure the distance between the tracks. 

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Instructional Ideas
  • Create an interdisciplinary lesson by writing and graphing functions that model the light waves
Classroom Considerations
  • Expects a solid understanding of the characteristics of a wave
  • Requires a specific set of lab materials and time for set up
Pros
  • Provides a series of activities to build an understanding of diffraction patterns
  • Includes student handouts to guide the investigations and record results
Cons
  • None