Educator

Interference

• Principle of linear superposition: When two or more waves are present in a certain place, the disturbance at each point is the sum of the disturbances of each wave.
• Interference: if two waves arrive at a point in phase they will interfere constructively; the intensity at that point will be enhanced. Destructive interference results if the phase difference is 180 degrees.
• When a wave goes through a slit, it bends around the edges; a central maximum is obtained, followed by a succession of dark and bright bands.