All Flashcards
What is wave interference?
The phenomenon that occurs when two or more waves interact, combining their amplitudes.
What is the principle of superposition?
The principle that the resulting displacement at any point is the sum of the individual displacements of each wave.
Define constructive interference.
Occurs when wave displacements are in the same direction, resulting in a larger amplitude.
Define destructive interference.
Occurs when wave displacements are in opposite directions, resulting in a smaller amplitude.
What are beats in the context of wave interference?
Beats arise from the superposition of two waves with slightly different frequencies, resulting in periodic amplitude fluctuations.
What are the differences between constructive and destructive interference?
Constructive: Wave displacements in the same direction, larger amplitude | Destructive: Wave displacements in opposite directions, smaller amplitude.
What happens when two waves with slightly different frequencies superpose?
Beats are produced, resulting in periodic amplitude fluctuations.