Interference

Definition

Interference occurs when two or more waves overlap and combine, resulting in either constructive interference (amplification) or destructive interference (cancellation).

Related terms

Diffraction: The bending or spreading out of waves around obstacles or through openings.

Superposition Principle:

States that when two or more waves meet at a point, the resulting displacement is the algebraic sum of their individual displacements.

Standing Wave: A wave pattern that forms when two waves of equal frequency and amplitude traveling in opposite directions interfere with each other.