Question

When waves meet each other and interfere, the resulting waveform is determined by which of the following?

Select one:

a. reflection

b. refraction

c. diffraction

d. the principle of superposition

Answer 1

Correct option (d). The principle of superposition.

Explanation- Whenever two waves meet each other then two type of interference usually takes place . One is constructive interference and other is destructive interference.

In each of above case after interference the shape of resultant wave is determined by using superposition principle.

Superposition principle states that " when two wave interfere, the resulting displacement of the medium at any location is algebraic sum of the displacement of individual wave at same location".