Waves

Question 1

Define superposition

Answer 1

Superposition is the resultant displacement caused by two waves arriving at a point; it is the vector sum of the individual displacement caused by each wave that instant

Question 2

Constructive interference

Answer 2

Occurs when two identical waves are in phase, creating double-height peaks and troughs as the two waves reinforce each other.

Question 3

Destructive interference

Answer 3

Occurs when waves are 180 degrees out of phase, creating a resultant displacement of zero as the waves cancel each other out

Question 4

Stationary waves

Answer 4

Stationary waves are formed when two progressive waves travelling in opposite directions pass through each other. the two waves must then have the same or similar amplitudes, and equal and opposite velocities. This causes a fixed pattern of vibrations where no energy is transferrers along the waves

Question 5

nodes v antinodes

Answer 5

at nodes the two waves are 180 degrees out of phase and cancel each other out. The particles at node have zero displacement.
at antinode the two waves are in phase and reinforce each other. The particles at antinodes have maximum displacement
The distance between nodes and nearest antinodes is λ/4.