4.4 Wave properties 2

Question 1

Define superposition

Answer 1

The effect of 2 waves adding together when they meet.

Question 2

State the principle of superposition.

Answer 2

The principle of superposition states that when 2 waves meet, the total displacement at a point is equal to the sum of the individual displacements at that point.

Question 3

What happens when

1. a crest meets a crest
2. a tough meets a trough
3. a crest meets a trough

Answer 3

1. a super crest is created - the 2 waves reinforce each other
2. a super trough is created - the 2 waves reinforce each other
3. where a crest meets a trough of the same amplitude, the resultant displacement is 0; the two waves cancel each other out. If they are not the same amplitude, the resultant force is called a minimum.

Question 4

Define stationary waves

Answer 4

wave pattern with nodes and antinodes formed when 2 or more progressive waves of the same frequency and amplitude pass through each other.

Question 5

Define progressive waves

Answer 5

waves which travel through a substance or through space if electromagnetic.

Question 6

Define nodes

Answer 6

fixed point in a stationary wave pattern where the amplitude is 0.

Question 7

Define interference

Answer 7

formation of points of cancellation and reinforcement where 2 coherent waves pass through each other.

Question 8

Define coherent

Answer 8

2 sources of waves are coherent if they emit waves with a constant phase difference.

Question 9

Why do coherent sources of waves produce an interfere ?

Answer 9

Coherent sources of waves produce an interference pattern where they overlap, because they vibrate at the same frequency with a constant phase difference.