When two or more waves combine to form a new wave, it is known as wave interference. Interference occurs when waves interact with each other, leading to the alteration of their amplitudes, frequencies, or phases. The resulting wave is a superposition of the individual waves involved in the interaction.
Interference can be categorized into two types:
Constructive Interference: Constructive interference occurs when the peaks of two or more waves align with each other. In this case, the amplitudes of the waves add up, resulting in an increased overall amplitude in the region of overlap. Constructive interference leads to reinforcement and amplification of the wave.
Destructive Interference: Destructive interference occurs when the peaks of one wave align with the troughs of another wave. In this case, the amplitudes of the waves cancel each other out, resulting in a decreased overall amplitude in the region of overlap. Destructive interference leads to the reduction or complete elimination of the wave.
The specific outcome of interference depends on the relative phases, frequencies, and amplitudes of the waves involved. Interference phenomena are observed in various contexts, including the double-slit experiment, where interference patterns are produced by the interaction of waves passing through two slits, as well as in optical devices such as interferometers.