Wave properties

Question 1

Principle of superposition

Answer 1

When two or more waves occupy the same position in the space then a resultant wave is found by the vector sum of the individual displacement for the wave at any point

Question 2

Constructive interference

Answer 2

Waves are in-phase
Same type of wave (transverse)
The waves reinforce each other to produce a larger wave

Question 3

Destructive interference

Answer 3

Waves are out-of-phase
Same type of wave (transverse)
The waves try to cancel each other so they produce a smaller wave
Total destructive interference produces a zero resultant wave known as cancellation

Question 4

Stationary wave

Answer 4

A stationary wave is formed by the interference of two progressive waves, of the same frequency and amplitude, travelling in opposite directions (reflected)

Question 5

Nodes

Answer 5

Places of zero displacement, Destructive interference always occurs at nodes

Question 6

Anti-nodes

Answer 6

Places in between nodes that oscillate and suffer maximum displacement

Question 7

Diffraction

Answer 7

Spreading out of a wave’s energy around obstacles and through gaps

Question 8

Coherent

Answer 8

Waves of same frequency and amplitude and also mainatain a constant phase difference

Question 9

Path difference equation

Answer 9

path difference=N x Theta

Question 10

Diffraction grating

Answer 10

Consists of a screen containing many small narrow parallel and equally spaced slits that transmit light

Question 11

Differences between grating and youngs double slit

Answer 11

Bright areas further apart in grating because slits are closer together in grating
Brighter areas are more sharper because of more slits in grating, therefore more constructive interference.