destructive interference

Wave interference is the phenomenon that occurs when two waves meet while traveling along the same medium. Interference may be constructive or destructive. When a crest) and trough) of two different waves interact you subtract the amplitudes . When the amplitude of the crest) and trough) are equal in magnitude (size) when the waves interact they will cancel each other out completely. When the crest) or trough) is greater in magnitude (size) when the waves interact they will only partially cancel each other out and a smaller wave will remain until the wave pass one another. Light Waves Notice when the crest and trough are equal in size and line up the wave cancels out. This would make a light appear to disappear. Sound Waves Notice when the compressions and rarefactions line up the wave cancels out. This would make the sound cancel out. 1. Experiment and create the largest constructive wave possible. 2. Experiment and create a destructive wave that completely cancels out. 3. Experiment and create a destructive wave that only partially cancels out. Video Guide: 1. ​How do noise cancelling headphones work? 2. How can you add two waves together and get nothing? When the crest and trough of two different waves interact they can partially or completely cancel each other out. ​ When a crest and trough of two different waves interact you subtract the amplitudes. Powered by Create your own unique website with customizable templates. Get Started