Maximum destructive inference between two waves occurs when the waves ...
Let the waves be
y1 = Asin(wt)
y2 = Asin(wt + φ)
If φ = π the interference is destructive.
Destructive interference occurs when the maxima of two waves are 180 degrees out of phase: a positive displacement of one wave is cancelled exactly by a negative displacement of the other wave. The amplitude of the resulting wave is zero. The dark regions occur whenever the waves destructively interfere.
Hence B is the correct answer.
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Maximum destructive inference between two waves occurs when the waves ...
Destructive interference occurs when the maxima of two waves are 180 degrees out of phase: a positive displacement of one wave is cancelled exactly by a negative displacement of the other wave. The amplitude of the resulting wave is zero. ... The dark regions occur whenever the waves destructively interfere.
Maximum destructive inference between two waves occurs when the waves ...
Understanding Destructive Interference
Destructive interference occurs when two waves meet in such a way that their amplitudes cancel each other out, resulting in a reduction or complete cancellation of the resultant wave's amplitude.
Phase Difference
- Phase difference is the measure of how much one wave is shifted from another, usually expressed in radians.
- For maximum destructive interference, the waves must be out of phase.
Condition for Maximum Destructive Interference
- Maximum destructive interference occurs specifically when the phase difference between the two waves is π radians (or 180 degrees).
- When two waves are 180 degrees out of phase, their peaks align with the troughs of the other wave, leading to complete cancellation.
Why Option B is Correct
- The correct answer, option 'B', refers to the phase difference of π radians.
- This phase shift means one wave reaches its peak while the other reaches its trough, maximizing cancellation.
Conclusion
- In summary, for maximum destructive interference between two waves, they must be out of phase by π radians. This unique phase relationship ensures that the waves negate each other, resulting in a wave with zero amplitude.