Wave Interference
Interference Happens when two waves meet. Two types: CConstructive Interference DDestructive Interference
Constructive Interference Crest meets crest and trough meets trough. RResult is higher crests and lower troughs. GGreater amplitude.
Destructive Interference Crest meets trough. RReduced amplitude.
Interference We’ve only dealt with interference between waves that have identical frequencies. MMost interference occurs between waves that have different frequencies and amplitudes. TThe result is a combination of constructive and destructive interference.
Standing Waves Created when two identical waves moving in opposite directions meet. EExample: A wave meets its own reflection. Wave appears to remain stationary. No net movement of energy.
nodes antinodes
Beats Arise when waves with two slightly different frequencies interfere. CCharacterized by rhythmic increases and decreases in amplitude. FFrequency of beat depends on how close the frequencies are. Very close frequencies = very slow beat Not as close frequencies = faster beat
PSP Illustration Tuning fork box demonstration