What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
diffraction
Example
The diffraction of light through a prism can create a rainbow. [diffraction: noun]
Example
The sound waves diffracted around the corner of the building. [diffracted: past tense verb]
dispersion
Example
The dispersion of ink in water creates a colorful pattern. [dispersion: noun]
Example
The protesters were dispersed by the police. [dispersed: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dispersion is more commonly used than diffraction in everyday language. Dispersion has broader applications and is used in various fields, while diffraction is more specific to the field of optics.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between diffraction and dispersion?
Both diffraction and dispersion are technical terms used in scientific contexts, making them formal words. However, dispersion may be more commonly used in non-scientific contexts due to its broader applications.
