Interference
Definition
Interference refers to the interaction between two or more waves when they meet. It can result in constructive interference (waves combine and amplify each other) or destructive interference (waves cancel each other out).
Related terms
Diffraction: The bending or spreading of waves around obstacles or through narrow openings.
Standing Waves: A pattern formed by the interference of two waves traveling in opposite directions, resulting in stationary points called nodes and points with maximum displacement called antinodes.
Young's Double-Slit Experiment: An experiment that demonstrates the wave nature of light by observing interference patterns created when light passes through two closely spaced slits.
"Interference" appears in:
Subjects (2)
AP Physics 1
AP Psychology
Additional resources (1)
AP Physics 2 - Unit 6 Overview: Geometric and Physical Optics
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Resources
Cram Mode
AP Score Calculators
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Glossary
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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.