Huygens-Fresnel Principle
The wave propagation principle asserting that every point on a wavefront acts as a secondary source of spherical wavelets.
Governing formula
New Wavefront = Envelope of Secondary Wavelets
SI unit
N/A
In depth
Explains wave reflection, refraction, and diffraction around obstacles by summing interference amplitudes from secondary wavelets.
Examples in the real world
Ocean waves bending around sea wall breakwaters and spreading into sheltered harbors.