Diffraction of Waves by a Wedge

The problem of wave propagation past a vertical wedge has been examined with the intent of generalizing previous solutions and finding useful asymptotic results. Reflection, diffraction, and the subsequent refraction of the incident, reflected, and diffracted waves have been included in the analysis and convenient asymptotic solutions were obtained. Significant effects due to reflection and diffraction were demonstrated and shown to be strongly dependent on wedge angle. The solutions obtained can be readily incorporated into present computer refraction programs so as to describe the propagation of waves past a wedge more generally than is presently possible. The geometrical theory of diffraction used here can also be applied to bodies of any shape so as to describe combined diffraction-refraction effects.