Wave Types Flashcard

Front

What is destructive interference?

Back

Destructive interference occurs when two wave trains that are out-of-phase combine, resulting in a reduction or cancellation of the wave amplitude.

Front

What is constructive interference?

Back

Constructive interference occurs when two wave trains that are in-phase combine, resulting in an increase in wave amplitude.

Front

What characterizes waves that undergo constructive interference?

Back

Waves that undergo constructive interference are in-phase, meaning their crests and troughs align.

Front

What characterizes waves that undergo destructive interference?

Back

Waves that undergo destructive interference are out-of-phase, meaning the crest of one wave aligns with the trough of another, leading to cancellation.

Front

What is a swell in oceanography?

Back

A swell is a series of uniform, symmetrical waves with long crests that typically travel from storm areas.

Front

Where do swells typically originate?

Back

Swells typically originate from storm areas where strong winds generate waves.

Front

What is the difference between swells and regular waves?

Back

Swells are characterized by their long, smooth crests and uniform shape, while regular waves can be short and irregular.

Front

What happens to wave amplitude during constructive interference?

Back

During constructive interference, the wave amplitude increases as the waves combine.

Front

What happens to wave amplitude during destructive interference?

Back

During destructive interference, the wave amplitude decreases as the waves cancel each other out.

Front

What is the phase relationship in constructive interference?

Back

In constructive interference, the waves are in-phase, meaning their peaks and troughs align.