Y1 Ch 06 Combining waves Flashcards
Stationary wave definition
A wave that is produces when two progressive waves of the same frequency and the same amplitude travelling in the opposite direction.
Harmonics definition
The frequencies at which stationary waves can form a stationary wave.
Nodes definition
Points of no vibrations - where the two waves cancel each other out
Antinodes definition
points at which the two waves double in amplitude - maximum vibrations.
The distance between 2 consecutive nodes
1/2 a wavelength
Things that affect the frequency of harmonics.
- Tension 2. Length 3. Thickness
The speed of a wave along a string equation
wave speed = (tension/mass)^1/2
There are no even harmonics …
in a closed pipe.
Constructive interference
When two waves in phase overlap - amplitudes add together
Destructive Interference
When two waves in antiphase overlap - amplitude cancel each other out.
The principle of superposition
The resultant displacement caused when two waves overlap is the vector sum of the displacements from each wave.
Coherent waves Definition
two waves with a constant phase difference and the same frequency.
If two waves are a whole number of wavelengths appart they will go through…
Constructive interference
If 2 waves a whole and a half wavelengths apaert will have …
Destructive interference
Diffraction definition
When a wave spreads out.
