The ability of a wave to spread around corners is called

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for the name of the property that lets a wave bend or spread around corners (edges of obstacles or openings).

Step 2: Explain the concepts

• Polarisation: Restricting the vibrations of a transverse wave to one plane. It has nothing to do with bending around corners.
• Dispersion: The splitting of white light into its component colours (e.g., by a prism), because each colour travels at a different speed in the medium.
• Diffraction: The spreading or bending of waves around the edges of obstacles or through narrow gaps. It is most noticeable when the size of the gap or obstacle is comparable to the wavelength.
• Reflection: The bouncing back of a wave when it hits a surface.

Step 3: Match the definition "Spreading around corners" is exactly the definition of diffraction. A good everyday example: you can hear someone talking in another room around a doorway even if you cannot see them. Sound waves have long wavelengths, so they diffract around the door frame. Light has a very short wavelength, so it diffracts much less noticeably.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is **C.

Tip: Think "Diffraction = Doorway." Waves spread out after passing through a doorway or around a corner. Also remember:

• Reflection = bouncing back
• Refraction = bending due to a change in speed (changing medium)
• Diffraction = spreading around edges or gaps

Don't mix up refraction and diffraction. This is a very common exam trap!