Interference

Interference occurs when two or more waves overlap in space. This can lead to increased or decreased amplitude, depending on whether the waves are in phase or out of phase.

When two waves of the same amplitude and phase meet, they reinforce each other and create a phenomenon known as constructive interference. The amplitudes of the two waves add together, resulting in an increased overall amplitude.

If, on the other hand, the waves are in opposite phases or are shifted by half a wavelength, destructive interference occurs. In this case, the amplitudes of the waves cancel each other out and the resulting amplitude is less than that of the individual waves.

This principle of interference is widely used in many fields, from wave optics to acoustic signal processing. It is a fundamental concept that deepens our understanding of wave behaviour and interactions.