Superposition

Question 1

Principle of Superposition

Answer 1

When two or more waves meet at a point, they interfere and the resultant displacement is the vector sum of the individual displacements

Question 2

Coherence

Answer 2

When two or more waves or wave sources have a constant phase difference and the same frequency

Question 3

Phase Difference

Answer 3

The difference in position on a wave cycle at a given time between two oscillating points, either on the same or different waves, expressed in degrees or radians, where 1 full wave cycle = 360 degrees or 2π radians

Question 4

Path Difference

Answer 4

The difference in the distance travelled by two waves from their source to a specific point

Question 5

Constructive Interference

Answer 5

When two or more waves that are in phase superpose and create a maximum (which is a greater amplitude than any of the individual amplitudes)

Question 6

Destructive Interference

Answer 6

When two or more waves that are in antiphase, superpose and create a minimum (the resulting amplitude is smaller than any of the individual amplitudes)

Question 7

Diffraction

Answer 7

The spreading of a wave after passing through a gap or around an obstacle