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What is meant by (i) diffraction, (ii) interference, of a wave? In an experiment, a signal generator was connected to two loudspeakers, as shown in the diagram - Leaving Cert Physics - Question b - 2005
Question b
What is meant by (i) diffraction, (ii) interference, of a wave? In an experiment, a signal generator was connected to two loudspeakers, as shown in the diagram. B... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:What is meant by (i) diffraction, (ii) interference, of a wave? In an experiment, a signal generator was connected to two loudspeakers, as shown in the diagram - Leaving Cert Physics - Question b - 2005
Step 1
What is meant by (i) diffraction, of a wave?
Answer
Diffraction refers to the bending of waves around obstacles or the spreading out of waves as they pass through gaps. This phenomenon occurs when a wave encounters an edge or an opening, causing it to change direction and spread into the area beyond the obstacle.
Step 2
What is meant by (ii) interference, of a wave?
Answer
Interference occurs when two or more waves meet and combine, resulting in a new wave pattern. This can lead to constructive interference, where the amplitudes add together, increasing the overall amplitude, or destructive interference, where the amplitudes subtract, leading to a decrease in overall amplitude.
Step 3
Step 4
What does this experiment demonstrate about the nature of sound?
Answer
This experiment demonstrates that sound behaves as a wave, displaying properties like interference and diffraction. It shows how sound waves can interact with one another and how their characteristics can change due to environmental factors.
Step 5
What is meant by the amplitude of a wave?
Answer
The amplitude of a wave refers to the maximum height of the wave from its rest position. It is a measure of the energy of the wave and directly relates to the loudness of the sound perceived: a larger amplitude corresponds to a louder sound.