Applied Science - Superposition & Stationary Waves

Coherence

A property used to describe two waves with the same phase difference

Path Difference

The difference in distances travelled by two waves to the same point

Phase Difference

The difference between two particles on a wave or on different waves

Superposition

Two waves meeting at the same point and adding to create a new resultant wave

Constructive

Two waves adding to make a larger wave

Destructive

Two waves adding to make a smaller wave

Diffraction

The process that causes waves to spread through a gap or around a boundary

Diffraction Grating

A device comprised of equally spaced slits to create a spectrum pattern by diffracting and interfering light sources

Emission Spectrum

Range of wavelengths of light given off by changing energy levels in an atom

Absorption Spectrum

Range of wavelengths with energy levels in an atom missing

Energy Level

Specific distances that electrons can exist around an atom

Stationary wave

A wave that has no resultant energy transfer and remains in the same position

Progressive wave

A wave that transfers energy and appears to move

Node

A point on a stationary wave where the amplitude is zero

Antinode

A point on a stationary wave with maximum possible displacement

Resonance

The enlargement of amplitude of an oscillation when the driving frequency is equal to the natural frequency

Natural Frequency

Rate of vibration which causes resonance

Driving Force

Periodic push which causes resonance

Tension

Pulling force in a taut string