Superposition

Question 1

State the principle of superposition

Answer 1

Principle of superposition states that when two or more waves meet at a point, the resultant displacement is the sum of displacements of each individual wave.

Question 2

Define interference

Answer 2

The effect or behaviour due to superposition of two waves that are coherent and have same amplitude.

Question 3

Define coherent

Answer 3

Waves with same frequency and constant phase difference

Question 4

Define diffraction

Answer 4

It is the spreading out of waves when they pass a gap or an edge

Question 5

Define stationary waves

Answer 5

It is produced when two waves of the same frequency and amplitude travelling in opposite direction superimpose on each other.
A stationary waves is made up of nodes and antinodes.

Question 6

Define node

Answer 6

Points where there is no vibration due to destructive super-position of the two travelling waves

Question 7

Define anti-node

Answer 7

Points where the vibrations are at maximum amplitude due to constructive superposition