Waves - Interference, Superposition

Two transverse waves overlap.  Crests overlap with crests.  Troughs overlap with troughs.  The waves are

• In-phase
• Out-of-phase
• In-synchronicity
• Out-of-synchronicity

Two transverse waves overlap.  Crests overlap with troughs.  Troughs overlap with crests.  The waves are

• In-phase
• Out-of-phase
• In-synchronicity
• Out-of-synchronicity

Two longitudinal waves overlap.  Compressions overlap with compressions.  Rarefactions overlap with rarefactions.  The waves are

• In-phase
• Out-of-phase
• In-synchronicity
• Out-of-synchronicity

Two longitudinal waves overlap.  Compressions overlap with rarefactions.  The waves are

• In-phase
• Out-of-phase
• In-synchronicity
• Out-of-synchronicity

If two overlapping waves are in-phase, the resultant wave will have ______ compared to the two waves.

• Greater amplitude
• Greater frequency
• Greater wavelength
• Greater wave speed

Constructive interference will result if parts of overlapping waves are _____.

• In phase
• Out of phase
• Moving in opposite directions
• Moving at the same wave speed.

Destructive interference will result if parts of overlapping waves are _____.

• In phase
• Out of phase
• Moving in opposite directions
• Moving at the same wave speed.

Look at the diagram. At which positions will the overlapping waves have the most constructive interference?

• Positions #1 & #5

• Positions #2 & #3

• Positions #3 & #4

• Positions #4 & #5

Look at the diagram. At which positions will the overlapping waves have the most constructive interference?

• Positions #1 & #3

• Positions #2 & #4

• Positions #4 & #7

• Positions #1 & #8

If waves overlap and are out of phase, how will that affect the resultant wave?

• Decrease the amplitude

• Increase the amplitude

• Decrease the frequency

• Increase the frequency