Principle of Superposition of waves and formation of stationary waves (AQA A-Level Physics): Flashcards

When waves overlap, displacements combine to form resultant displacement (vector sum)

Larger amplitude from waves displacing in same direction

Waves with opposite displacements cancel, reducing amplitude

2 waves, same $f$, $\lambda$, amplitude, opposite directions

Stationary waves do not transfer energy through the medium

Points of no displacement; destructive interference occurs

Points of maximum amplitude; constructive interference occurs

Lowest frequency mode; two nodes and one antinode

Half a wavelength ($\lambda/2$)

Integer multiples of the fundamental frequency