A convex lens or mirror has at least one side that bulges outward. A convex lens produces converging light rays. A convex mirror produces diverging rays. A phenomenon that occurs whenever a wave is obstructed in any way. Often diffraction fringes can be seen when a small aperature or object blocks light waves.
Scientists use diffraction gratings to break up light into many wavelengths .
Physicists and astronomers often use diffraction gratings to study the nature of light. Click the Back button on your browser to Exit the Glossary diverge To move in different directions from a common point or from each other. The opposite of diverge is converge . A concave lens which has both edges bulging inward. A convex lens which has both edges bulging outward.