What does the term diffraction refer to in sound?

Diffraction in the context of sound refers to the spreading of sound waves as they encounter obstacles or pass through openings. This phenomenon allows sound to bend around corners or spread out after passing through gaps, enabling it to be heard even when the source of the sound is not in direct line with the listener. It is a crucial aspect of how sound behaves in various environments, especially in everyday situations where obstacles may block direct paths.

While sharpness in sound direction change may pertain to sound wave behavior, it does not accurately describe the core concept of diffraction. The other choices pertain to different aspects of sound physics, with absorption relating to how sound energy is taken up by materials and intensity increase addressing changes in sound wave power. Understanding diffraction helps clarify how we perceive sounds in different spatial contexts, demonstrating the complexity and versatility of sound waves.