Superposition of waves Flashcards
principle of superposition?
When two or more waves meet at a point the resultant displacement is the algebraic sum of the displacements of the individual waves.
diffraction?
spreading of waves as it passes through a gap
constructive interference?conditions?
when two waves arrive in phase with each other
path difference is whole number of wavelengths
destructive interference?conditions?
when two wave arrive completely out f phase with each other, they cancel out each other.
odd number of half wavelenghts
path difference?
extra distance travelled by one of the waves compared with the other.
coherent waves?
waves which have a constant phase difference
monochromatic?
very small or no range of wavelengths or frequencies.