Superposition of Waves – Practice
Questions:
1) Outline how the resultant wave would be determined given a graph of two transverse waves:
2) If two waves interact and the amplitude of the wave has increased, what type of interference has occurred?
3) Does the speed of component waves change after two waves have superimposed? Explain:
4) Use the wave graphs below to draw a resultant wave:
a)
b)
c)
d)
Quick Answers:
1) The resultant wave is determined by the addition of the individual wave amplitudes at every point where wave interference has occurred.
Usually, the addition of amplitudes is done at short intervals and the resultant wave is closely approximated.
2) Constructive. Any increase in amplitude is constructive interference.
Note: Superposition of waves can result in sections of constructive and destructive interference on the same resultant wave.
3) No. The original waves continue with no change to amplitude, frequency or speed.
4) See video
Worked Answers: