In: Physics
When two waves in the same medium hit each other, the resulting displacement of the medium is
A. Either larger or smaller than the displacement of either wave acting alone, depending on the signs of the displacements of the two waves. |
B. Always smaller than the displacement due to either wave acting alone. |
C. Always larger than the displacement due to either wave acting alone. |
Answer:
When two waves in the same medium hit each other, the resulting displacement of the medium is Either larger or smaller than the displacement of either wave acting alone, depending on the signs of the displacements of the two waves.
Explanation:
When two are more waves meet while traveling through the same medium, Interference will occur in that medium due to superposition of waves. There are two types of interference which could takes place at any given location along the medium. If at a given location, both interfering waves are displaced in the same direction (both up or both down), then constructive interference is said to occur at that location. That means, the resultant displacement becomes larger.
If at a given location, both interfering waves are displaced in the opposite direction (one is up and the other down), then destructive interference is said to occur at that location. Then the resultant displacement becomes smaller.