Superposition Flashcards
1
Q
What is superposition?
A
When 2 or more waves meet at a point, the resultant displacement is the vector sum of the individual displacements. Both waves should be of the same type.
2
Q
What are coherent waves?
A
- Waves with identical frequencies and wavelengths
- Have constant phase relationships
- When coherent waves meet at a point they can produce stable interference patterns
White light cannot be coherent
3
Q
What is path difference?
A
- Difference in distance travelled between two waves to a point
- Δs
4
Q
What are the conditions for complete constructive interference?
A
- Coherent waves
- In phase
- Path difference = nλ
5
Q
What are the conditions for complete destructive interference?
A
- coherent waves
- antiphase
- path difference = (n+1/2)λ
