Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
Nodes are points in a wave where there is no displacement or amplitude. They occur when two waves interfere destructively, resulting in cancellation of their amplitudes.
Wavelength refers to the distance between two consecutive nodes (or antinodes) in a wave.
Standing Wave: A standing wave occurs when two waves with equal frequency and amplitude traveling in opposite directions interfere constructively and form stationary patterns.
Harmonics: Harmonics are multiples of the fundamental frequency produced by vibrating objects, such as strings or air columns.