Formation of Stationary Waves

Question 1

What is the principle of superposition?

Answer 1

• When two or more waves with the same frequency and amplitude arrive at a point, the resultant
  displacement is the sum of the displacements of each wave
• Applies to all types of waves i.e. transverse and longitudinal, progressive and stationary

Question 2

What happens when both waves superpose in phase?

Answer 2

• Causes constructive interference. The peaks and troughs line up on both waves and the resultant wave has double the amplitude

Question 3

What happens when both waves superpose in antiphase?

Answer 3

• Causes destructive interference and the peaks on one wave line up with the troughs of the other (Resultant wave has no amplitude)